Counseling Catalog

2018-2019 M.S.
Counseling CATALOG
Welcome to Divine Mercy University

Thank you for taking the time to review our catalog and learn
more about the dynamic programs we have here both onsite
here in Arlington, VA and online. I am always inspired by the
commitment of our students, faculty and alumni, and hope you
are able to glimpse a bit of the incredible mission and team we
have here.
Building a program which integrates the best of psychology and

clinical mental health counseling with the Catholic-Christian
vision of the person is a challenging task, yet we have made
remarkable progress over these short years:
● Our past and current students have come from over 30

states as well as 13 other countries.
● Our 160 alumni are serving in many parts of our nation
and abroad, building Catholic psychology practices.
● Our efforts have been recognized by Pope Benedict XVI
(then Cardinal Ratzinger) and Pope John Paul II*, among
many other distinguished intellectuals of our day.
● In 2014, we expanded by introducing our first fully
online Master’s degree, a Master of Science in
Psychology, designed for working professionals and
those in pastoral ministry.
● In 2016, we added a new School of Counseling and
launched an online MS in Clinical Mental Health
Counseling.
● We are also proud to enter our second decade with no
debt and a growing number of supporters.
Maintaining the highest educational standards, we are

continuing to explore other ways to transform culture and
make the practice of an integrated psychology a prominent
reality: collaborating with bishops and Catholic communities
worldwide, designing more online programs, and preparing a
groundbreaking textbook of case studies that will demonstrate
the difference our vision makes in concrete therapeutic
practice.
I invite you to join us as we look forward to an exciting time in

the field of psychology and counseling. Pursue your vocation to
heal (or helping others pursue theirs), and transform our
culture. Please come and visit us sometime or join our online
community!
God bless,
Rev. Charles Sikorsky L.C., J.D., J.C.L.
* “Address of John Paul II to the Tribunal of the Roman Rota,”

February 7, 1987
About DMU
Divine Mercy University (DMU) is a Catholic graduate school of
psychology and counseling, founded in 1999 as the Institute for
the Psychological Sciences. The University is dedicated to the
scientific study of psychology with a Catholic understanding of
the person, marriage, and the family. The University offers
Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctoral (Psy.D.) degrees in
Clinical Psychology, a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in
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M.S. in Counseling Program Catalog, page 2
Psychology and a Master of Science (M.S.) in Counseling.
The Divine Mercy University is governed by its Board of

Directors, which has complete and final governing authority
over the University. The Board consists of the Bishop Emeritus
of Arlington, Virginia, seven lay Catholic leaders and three
members of the Legionaries of Christ. The Legion sponsors the
University by providing a President and a Chaplain and helping
to maintain the Catholic identity of the institution.
DMU Vision
The Divine Mercy University will be an international center for
scholarship and professional training dedicated to the
development of a psychology grounded in an integral
Catholic-Christian view of the human person. Maintaining the
highest academic standards, it will educate new generations of
psychologists as well as professionals in psychology-related
fields and open new areas of research for psychological theories
that explore the relationship of psychology and the
Catholic-Christian understanding of the human person.
DMU Mission
Divine Mercy University (University) is an institution of higher
education offering Master’s and Doctoral degrees. It is affiliated
with the Legionaries of Christ. The University is dedicated to
the renewal of the Catholic Christian intellectual tradition and
the integration of the theoretical and empirical bases of
psychology and a Catholic-Christian view of the human person.
The University seeks to provide students an effective academic

and educational environment that supports the integration of
the psychological sciences and a Catholic-Christian
understanding of the person through teaching and learning
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both knowledge and critical skills. It assists students
intellectually and professionally as they prepare themselves to
respond to their vocation as mental health professionals or as
men and women in helping professions. The University’s
mission also involves dialogue about its integrative approach
with practitioners and scholars, nationally and internationally.
Statement of Identity
Divine Mercy University (University) is a Catholic institution
formed to train leaders in the field of psychology and
counseling. According to its mission statement, “the University
is dedicated to the renewal of the Catholic Christian intellectual
tradition and the integration of the theoretical and empirical
bases of psychology and a Catholic view of the human person.”
The life of the University is rooted in and fully informed by the

teaching of the Catholic Church. This vision involves every
aspect of life at the University, including the training model,
education in the classroom and the clinic, intellectual and
scholarly pursuits, and our common life as an academic
community. The identity of the University finds its primary
source in the word of God, which is expressed in the whole
Tradition of the Catholic Church (Scripture and Magisterium)
(Dei Verbum [The Word of God, Dogmatic Constitution on
Divine Revelation of the Second Vatican Council], DV, sec. 7-10).
The heart of the identity of the University is belief in the

Trinitarian God who has revealed himself through Jesus Christ.
Believing all things are created by God and bear resemblance to
him, we view reality and each person as a gift. We recognize the
primacy of God’s gift, which humanity is invited to receive and
to give in turn. Therefore, we seek to promote and participate in
an authentic “culture of life” (Evangelium Vitae [The Gospel of
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Life], Encyclical of Pope John Paul II, 1995, sec. 28) at the
University and in the broader culture.
We affirm that the human being has been created “in the image
of God” (Genesis 1:27), and so every person has transcendent
dignity. Created by God, who is truth himself (John 14:6), the
human person is called “to live the truth in love” (Ephesians
4:15). In Jesus Christ, the human person fully discovers himself
as made in love and for love. Each person, in turn, can only find
himself “through a sincere gift of self” (Gaudium et Spes [Joy
and Hope, Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern
World of the Second Vatican Council], 1965, sec. 24).
All are called to live a relationship of love with God. God calls
each person through a unique vocation to holiness; the gift of
self is the archetypal form of the person’s response to this call.
Some people are called to special states in life (marriage,
ordained, or consecrated celibacy). Everyone is called to glorify
God and serve others through their work. We view the pursuit
of graduate studies at the University and the work of
professional psychology in vocational terms, as a response to
God’s call.
The human person is further recognized as a free and

responsible being (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2nd ed.,
sec. 1738). God gave persons the possibility to accept or reject
His love. In turn, we at the University honor the freedom of all
people: students, faculty, staff, clients, and others. We recognize
that the human person is fallen and is wounded by sin, but is
offered redemption in Jesus Christ through the Church and the
grace of the Holy Spirit. In the light of faith, we live and affirm a
vision of hope.
Those who come to work or study at the University either

personally hold the Catholic Church’s vision of God and the
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human person, or remain respectful of this vision. A concern for
physical, psychological, social, and spiritual development and
well- being motivates the University to clearly identify the
qualities of character and conduct that the University
community strives to attain. The Catholic identity of the
University has particular implications for the model of training
at the University and the form of our common life.
A Catholic Christian Vision of the Person

A Catholic Christian vision of the person permeates all the
University’s teaching and training. This vision guides our
programs, which form mental health and helping professionals
to meet the growing demand in today’s culture for therapists
who respect the dignity and uniqueness of every person. The
University’s clinicians go beyond simple symptom relief to
facilitate true healing and growth for clients and their families.
Our training emphasizes not only assessment and treatment of
disorders, but also how to help clients develop virtues and
respond to their callings to flourishing and communion.
To assist in articulating this integrated understanding of reality

and each person’s spiritual, interpersonal, emotional, and
temporal dimensions, the University faculty – mental health
professionals (clinicians and theoreticians), bio-psycho-social
scientists, philosophers and theologians – meet regularly in a
research group called the Faculty Integration Project. More than
a decade of this multidisciplinary work has resulted in “The
Catholic Christian Meta-Model of the Person”.
This vision of the person brings together the theoretical,

clinical, and empirical-knowledge of psychology and counseling
with philosophical and theological insights about the person
from the perspective of the Catholic faith. This training model
also emphasizes the particular vocations of both the therapist
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and the client. It views the mental health professional as having
a vocation to heal, and believes that each person’s vocational
state – single, married, raising a family, professional, member
of the clergy – plays an integral role in the therapeutic process.
By understanding the whole person, clinicians can provide
more effective treatment.
Ex Corde Ecclesiae
In conformity with The Application of Ex Corde Ecclesiae for the
United States, approved by the Catholic Bishops of the United
States on implementing the apostolic constitution Ex Corde
Ecclesiae, professors of theology and philosophy at the Divine
Mercy University must acquire the mandatum* from the local
Bishop. As well, at every University presidential inauguration
the incoming president takes the Oath of Fidelity on Assuming
an Office to be Exercised in the Name of the Church, as
conforming to Pope John Paul II’s Apostolic Letter Motu Proprio
Ad Tuendam Fidem.
*”The mandatum is fundamentally an acknowledgment by

Church authority that a Catholic professor of a theological
discipline is a teacher within the full communion of the Catholic
Church. The mandatum, therefore, recognizes the professor’s
commitment and responsibility to teach authentic Catholic
doctrine and refrain from putting forth as Catholic teaching
anything contrary to the Church’s magisterium. The mandatum
should not be construed as an appointment, authorization,
delegation or approbation of one’s teaching by Church
authorities. Those who have received a mandatum teach in
their own name in virtue of their baptism and their academic
and professional competence, not in the name of the bishop or
the Church’s magisterium.” (“Guidelines concerning the
Academic Mandatum in Catholic Universities,” U.S.C.C.B.)
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Board of Directors
Fr. Shawn Aaron, L.C. Cumming, Georgia
Mrs. Evelyn Auth Naples, Florida
Mr. Thomas Cunningham, Ellicott City, Maryland

Chairman
Mr. Frank J. Hanna, III Atlanta, Georgia
Fr. John Hopkins, L.C., Vice Pasadena, California

Chairman
Bishop Paul S. Loverde Arlington, Virginia
Dr. G. Alexander Ross Vero Beach, Florida
Fr. Charles Sikorsky, L.C., Potomac, Maryland

President
Dr. Barry Sugarman Towson, Maryland
Mr. Eugene Zurlo Charleston, South Carolina
Corporate Officers
Mr. Thomas Cunningham, Ellicott City, Maryland

Chairman
Fr. John Hopkins, L.C., Vice Pasadena, California

Chairman
Fr. Charles Sikorsky, L.C., Potomac, Maryland

President
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Antonio Maza, Corporate Potomac, Maryland
Treasurer
Becci Sheptock, Corporate Alexandria, Virginia

Secretary
Degrees Offered
Divine Mercy University offers the following degrees:
● Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
● Master of Science in Counseling
● Master of Science in Psychology
● Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology
Degree Granting Authority/State Authorization

Divine Mercy University was formed, chartered, and established
in the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1998, is accredited by a U.S.
Department of Education recognized accrediting agency, and is
therefore exempt from the requirements of certification or
approval by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia
(SCHEV). The exemption entitles the University to conduct
academic affairs or business without seeking or obtaining
SCHEV approval. The resulting scope of the institutional
autonomy includes:
● offering courses or programs for degree credit;

● enrolling students in courses or programs;
● conferring or awarding degrees;
● initiating other programs for degree credit at a new or
additional level; and
● offering instruction at additional or new locations.
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Divine Mercy University is authorized under National Council
for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) to
offer online degree programs to students in any of the 47
NC-SARA member states. Prospective students for the M.S. in
Psychology and/or M.S. in Counseling programs can check the
NC-SARA website for assurance of their state's participation.
Accreditation
Regional Accreditation
Divine Mercy University is accredited by the Southern
Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to
award master's and doctorate degrees. Contact the Commission
on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia
30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the
accreditation of Divine Mercy University.
APA Accreditation
The IPS doctoral program in clinical psychology (Psy.D.) is
accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American
Psychological Association (APA).
*Questions related to the program’s accredited status should be
directed to the Commission on Accreditation:
Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation
American Psychological Association
750 1st Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002
Phone: (202) 336-5979 / E-mail: apaaccred@apa.org
Web: w ww.apa.org/ed/accreditation
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ASPPB/National Register Designated Program
The Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) program meets the
Association of State & Provincial Psychology Boards/National
Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology “Guidelines
for Defining ‘Doctoral Degree in Psychology.’” Therefore,
graduates of this designated program who decide to apply for
licensing as a psychologist typically will meet the educational
requirements for licensing. However, in each jurisdiction there
are additional requirements that must be satisfied. For exact
information, please contact the state, provincial, or licensing
board in the jurisdiction in which you plan to apply.
Once licensed, graduates are eligible to apply for credentialing

as a Health Service Provider in Psychology. Graduation from a
designated program ensures that the program completed meets
the educational requirements for credentialing by the National
Register. However, there are additional requirements that must
be satisfied prior to being credentialed by the National Register
of Health Service Providers in Psychology. For further
information, consult the National Register’s website: www.
nationalregister.org.
Academic Excellence
The curriculum at the University was developed according to
criteria set by licensing laws and best practices guidelines
established on the national level by professional associations.
The success of the University programs can be witnessed on a
number of levels:
● All doctoral graduates who have applied for licensure

have been licensed. They are employed throughout the
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country and around the world, in private practice,
serving dioceses, conducting assessments and running
therapy groups in various clinical settings, and writing
and speaking on topics in the field of psychology;
● Doctoral students, in the course of their training, are
placed in paid internship sites, which is validation of our
rigorous and comprehensive curriculum and clinical
training. The doctoral programs interns and externs
consistently receive the highest ratings from their
respective training directors and supervisors;
● The Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology is
accredited by the American Psychological Association
(APA).
● The Psy.D. program has been recognized since 2006 as a
National Register Designation program by the
Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards
(ASPPB).
● The Board of Directors, faculty, staff, and administration
of the University are committed to maintaining the
highest academic standards in teaching and clinical
training by supporting innovative programs and through
an ongoing process of evaluation and continuous
improvement.
Academic Freedom
Besides the teaching, research, and service common to all
institutes of higher education, Divine Mercy University, as a
Catholic institution, brings to the educational endeavor the
inspiration and light of the Christian faith. Catholic insights,
ideals, and truths inform its scholarly and pedagogical activities
in accordance with the proper nature and autonomy of these
activities. Each faculty member is guaranteed academic
freedom in this regard to pursue his or her respective discipline
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in accordance with the principles and proper methods of each
discipline, and insofar as it is consistent with the common good
of the University and its mission, and the normative teaching of
the Roman Catholic Church.
Board Policy on Diversity

The Board of Directors of Divine Mercy University is committed
to a diverse and inclusive educational environment. The
University is associated with the Roman Catholic Church which
teaches that every type of discrimination, whether social or
cultural, whether based on sex, race, color, social condition,
language or religion is to be overcome and eradicated (Vatican
Council II, Gaudium et Spes, 29, 1965). While a preference for
persons adhering to the religious purpose/affiliation of the
University exists, this preference does not preclude the
admission, hiring or retention of individuals because of
personal and demographic characteristics. The Board of
Directors recognizes that a broad range of perspectives is
crucial to the success of our organization and seeks to develop
strategies to ensure that our workforce is reflective of the
greater community by supporting diversity initiatives within
the organization.
Harassment-Free Environment
It is the policy of Divine Mercy University that no student,
employee, or volunteer of DMU should be subject to unsolicited,
unwelcome, abusive, or offensive conduct of either a verbal or
physical nature. Harassment refers to behavior that is not
welcome, is personally offensive, interferes with efficiency or
creates uneasiness. Examples of harassment include, but are
not limited to: repeated offensive sexual flirtations, advances or
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propositions; continued or repeated verbal abuse of a racial
nature; graphic, degrading, or demeaning ethnic comments
about an individual or about his/her appearance; the display of
sexually suggestive objects or pictures; or any other offensive
or abusive verbal comments or physical contact. Further,
students and employees will not be subjected to third party
harassment, which is defined as behavior that is personally
offensive to an observing party. Students or University
representatives engaging in any act that harasses or
discriminates against another person because of age, race,
color, national or ethnic origin, gender, religion, marital status,
or the presence of a disability, shall not be tolerated. Such
conduct is specifically prohibited. Appropriate action will be
taken by the University administration.
Campus Facilities in Arlington, VA

The DMU campus is located within the metropolitan area of
Washington, D.C., at 2001 Jefferson Davis Highway in Crystal
City, Arlington, Virginia. The campus comprises approximately
16,000 sq. ft. of leased space on the ground and fifth floors of
the building. Two of the three classrooms, the library, study
areas, study rooms, student computer lab, the training clinic,
student lounge, kitchen, and chapel are located on the first
floor. Faculty and administrative offices and the third classroom
are located on the fifth floor of the building. Wireless
technology is available throughout the facilities.
The faculty and administrative offices are located on the fifth

floor of the building (Suites 508, 509, and 511) and are
accessible between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Access to this area
outside of these hours requires security key access, available
through the Business Office.
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The University is located in an area that offers a wide variety of
services. Printed directories and maps are available throughout
campus, and students may contact the Office of Student Services
for more information.
IPS Center for Psychological Services (IPS Training Clinic) has a

separate entrance and is for Clinician and Patient use only.
The security system for the first floor facilities is active at all
times. With the use of a security key issued by the Business
Office, students and employees have access to the Classrooms,
Library, and Chapel during the posted Hours:
Monday through 8:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Thursday
Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
M.S. Counseling Program Overview
School of Counseling Vision

The vision of the School of CouEnseling (SOC) of Divine
Mercy University is to inspire global training of
transformational leaders and social justice advocates who
use counseling as an instrument of healing.
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School of Counseling Mission
The mission of the School of Counseling is to develop and
maintain an world-wide educational community offering
master’s level degree programs in professional counseling
in support of the DMU’s integrative mission, that is
inclusive of a culture of feedback wherein student voices
are heard and respected.
Students will be prepared to:
1. Hear the rich and complex voices of clients in view of

each person’s flourishing, even in the midst of human
difficulty and challenge;
2. Demonstrate compassionate and versatile
interpersonal skills to develop healing relationships
with clients in collaboration with other professionals;
3. Become professional counselors who, informed by a
Catholic Christian vision of the flourishing person,
inspire themselves and others to have courage to trust,
hope, and love.
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program

Accreditation
Due to the regulatory nature of a professional degree
program, students should be familiar with the aspects of
educational accreditation.
Accreditation is a process of external quality review

created and used by higher education to scrutinize
colleges, universities and programs for quality
____________________________________________
assurance and quality improvement. In the United
States, accreditation is carried out by private,
nonprofit organizations designed for this specific
purpose. External quality review of higher education is
a nongovernmental enterprise (Council for Higher
Education Accreditation, 2015, ¶ 1-2).
Accreditation is the responsibility of recognized

accreditors. The Council for Higher Education
Accreditation (2012, September), explains the significance
and types of recognition of accreditors.
The United States Department of Education (USDE) and a

private organization, the Council for Higher Education
Accreditation (CHEA), both “recognize” accrediting
organizations. The USDE process is governed by
federal law and regulations. The CHEA process is
private and is governed by policies adopted by a
17-member board of directors. The U.S. Department of
Education, under the federal Higher Education Act
(HEA) (p. 2). Only those institutions that are
accredited by a USDE-recognized accrediting
organization are eligible to receive federal financial
assistance for their students (p. 3).
Essentially, two categories of educational accreditation are

poignant: 1) institutional and, 2) programmatic
accreditation.
Institutional accreditation applies to an entire institution,

indicating that each of an institution's parts is
contributing to the achievement of the institution's
objectives. The regional and national accreditors
perform institutional accreditation (U.S. Department of
Education, 2016, June 15, ¶ 13).
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Programmatic Accreditation
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program
curricula is aligned with premier industry programmatic
standards established by the Council for Accreditation of
Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
The DMU-SOC CMHC program is NOT yet accredited by
CACREP. The process to achieve programmatic
accreditation is complex, with several components,
including a off-site and on-site review of the program by a
CACREP Review Team. CACREP will not schedule a Site
Review until they have completed an off-site review and
we have students in the final term before graduation.
Students in a program seeking accreditation shall be
considered graduates of a CACREP program if they receive
their degree within eighteen (18) months prior to when
accreditation is conferred, and if the program can verify
that the student completed the CACREP program
requirements. DMU cannot hold out any promise or
guarantee of becoming CACREP accredited; however, DMU
is committed to applying for CACREP accreditation in the
design, preparation and deployment of the program.

Mission
The mission of the DMU – SOC Entry-level specialty
program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is to teach
and train graduates for community practice as competent,
culturally sensitive, ethical, and morally sound professional
counselors prepared to provide diagnosis and treatment of
mental disorders and to effectively facilitate flourishing
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and personal transformation. Clinical Mental Health
Counseling graduates are prepared to serve in their
communities as advocates for social justice, and as
service-oriented facilitators of mental health and wellness
with a focus on respect for dignity in diversity and the
human person.
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Philosophy

This program is designed to prepare professionals for
practice who will have the presence, knowledge, and skills
to address a wide variety of circumstances within the
context of the specialization of Clinical Mental Health
Counseling.
M.S. in Counseling Program Description

The M.S. in Counseling degree program prepares students
for a role as a licensed professional counselor who works
to promote mental health and well-being with a diverse
population, as well as diagnosing and treating a wide range
of mental health and life issues. Program curricula
integrate a Catholic-Christian worldview with the science,
profession, and practice of counseling.
M.S. Counseling Program Goals

(Aspirational)
Graduates of the DMU School of Counseling M.S. Counseling
program will be able to:
1. Exhibit a vibrant professional counselor identity with

the foundational knowledge and skills of the profession;
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2. Enter the client’s life narrative with compassion and
respect;
3. Develop person-centered, comprehensive case
conceptualization for effective treatment planning;
4. Employ basic social and behavioral sciences, a habit of
evidential reasoning, and the multiple roles of
professional counseling to promote human flourishing;
5. Embody a vision of the flourishing person that inspires
them, as professional counselors, and their clients to
have courage to trust, hope and love.
Program Goals (Student Learning Outcomes)

Graduates of the DMU School of Counseling Clinical
Mental Health Counseling program will be able to:
1. Integrate aspects of ethical professional practice,
including advocacy processes, to develop a professional
counselor identity.
2. Apply multicultural competencies for diverse
populations in all aspects of professional practice.
Apply theories of human growth and development to
individuals and families across the lifespan in all
aspects of professional practice in diverse societies.
TApply career development theories and models to all
aspects of educational and career counseling in a global
economy.
3. Apply the historical, philosophical, and theoretical
foundations of the counseling profession in all aspects
of professional practice.
4. Apply theoretical and experiential group approaches in
all aspects of professional practice with diverse clients.
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5. Apply multiculturally competent psychological
measurement theories and concepts in the assessment
and evaluation of diverse clients.
6. Analyze counseling research and ethically apply the
findings in an evidence-based practice and program
evaluation.
7. Demonstrate counseling competence in crisis
intervention, trauma informed approaches, and
community-based strategies.
8. Apply principles and models of assessment, case
conceptualization, and treatment for working with
diverse individuals, couples, families, and communities
from a systems perspective.
9. Apply a biopsychosocial, spiritual, and environmental
case conceptualization, including mental health history
and etiology of co-occurring disorders, in evaluating
clients during intake interviews, mental status
evaluations, and administration of psychological
assessments for formulating diagnosis, treatment plans,
and caseload management strategies.
10. Evaluate clients’ personal, social, and spiritual
resources for promoting resiliency, healing, and
flourishing informed by the holistic vision of the
Catholic Christian Metamodel of the Person (CCMMP) in
all aspects of professional practice.
11. Program, Faculty, and Student Evaluation
The Divine Mercy University School of Counseling
program is aligned with the 2016 CACREP Standards
with a Specialization in Clinical Mental Health
Counseling. A Comprehensive Assessment Plan includes
program evaluation, assessment of student learning,
and processes for evaluation of program faculty and
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site supervisors. The assessment plan utilizes
summative and formative activities to measure levels of
course, general curricula/program, faculty and student
success. Teaching and learning outcomes will be
measured using analytic metrics, student feedback,
faculty evaluation of student assimilation of learning
outcomes throughout the program, and data collection
systems. Students are asked to complete an evaluative
course survey instrument at or near the end of each
course.
State Licensure Regulation Overview

State Licensing, National Certification and Certificates
In the professional counseling arena, a license to practice is
issued by state authority and regulation. All 50 states and
the District of Columbia have laws requiring counselors to
meet the requirements for, and obtain a license to practice
as counselors in a specific state or jurisdiction. At this time,
states do not recognize a counseling license issued by
another state as valid for practice. Additionally, some
countries and/or U.S. Territories may have mental health
professional practice license laws. A license to practice is
required by each state and/or jurisdiction where
individuals might practice as a counselor. Individuals are
solely responsible for finding and upholding license or
practice laws wherever they practice.
There are many certificates that may be earned in the field

of counseling and human services in general. A certificate
of completion differs from a certification, and from a
license. A certification or certificate of completion does not
meet professional practice law requirements. Certification
as a National Certified Counselor (NCC), for example, does
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not authorize an individual to practice as a counselor in
any state or jurisdiction unless specifically stated in a
jurisdiction’s law. The 50 U.S. states and District of
Columbia do not recognize the NCC as a license to practice.
Obtaining certification as an NCC can be explored at:
http://www.nbcc.org/Certification/CertificationorLicensu
re.
State Authority and Counseling License Regulations

Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a state regulated
professional field requiring licensure by the state of
residence in order to practice as a Clinical Mental Health
Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, or other
license designation. Each state retains regulatory rights to
license requirements, which in turn vary by state as does
the title of the particular license. For example, states may
title counselors as Licensed Professional Counselors,
Clinical Mental Health Counselors, Licensed Clinical Mental
Health Counselors, and/or Licensed Professional Clinical
Counselors, among others. It is the responsibility of each
STUDENT to determine the license requirements for their
respective state, and to meet the requirements of their
state for licensure.
The DMU SOC Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is

designed to meet the educational curricular requirements
of the State of Virginia, the resident state of DMU. By virtue
of alignment with industry standards for counseling
program curriculum, the CMHC program may meet the
educational requirements for students’ state of residence
outside of the State of Virginia. However, many states have
additional educational and other requirements that are
beyond the scope of the DMU program. Students are
required to explore and determine the license
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requirements of their state in the first course of the
program, COUN 510, Foundations and Ethics of Clinical
Mental Health Counseling.
Tiered Licensing
Obtaining a license to practice as a professional, clinical
mental health counselor often involves “layers” of
licensing. For example, some states may offer an
opportunity to obtain an initial post-graduation license.
After a specified amount of experience that is sometimes
defined by calendar years, service hours, and/or
continuing education requirements, individuals may
qualify and apply for advanced levels of licensure. State law
and licensure categories vary by state.
Typically, counselors may begin a professional career at an

entry-level application for license that may include
state-described constraints on autonomy, practice setting,
and requirements for continued supervision. Students are
responsible for determining the license requirements in
the state of intended practice, and for meeting the
requirements to apply for a mental health practitioner
license at each level as defined by state regulation.
Preferred License Examinations

In order to be licensed in many states, students must take
and pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE),
and/or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Examination (NCMHCE), a product of the National Board
for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The examination
requirements are determined by your state of residence, or
country of jurisdiction, and are taken after graduation from
the DMU program. In order to take the exams, direct your
inquiries to your state licensing board rules and
____________________________________________
regulations, and your state license application process.
License examinations and state licenses require a fee that
is not included in any enrollment fees or costs associated
with the DMU CMHC program. License exam and license
fees are the sole responsibility of the student, and are not
covered by financial aid.
License laws for each state may be found by visiting your

state’s licensing board website, and through the American
Counseling Association website:
https://www.counseling.org/knowledge-center/licensure-
requirements. Students are strongly encouraged to study
and prepare for the license exams. Study materials and
seminars for the licensing exams can be obtained by
visiting the National Board for Certified Counselors
website :NCE/NCMHCE Preparation Guides
http://www.nbcc.org/Exam/StudyGuides
http://www.nbcc.org
nbcc@nbcc.org
State Authority and License Regulations

Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a state regulated
professional field requiring licensure by the state of
residence in order to practice as a licensed professional
counselor. Each states retains regulatory rights to license
requirements, which in turn vary by state as does the title
of the particular license. For example, states may title
counselors as Licensed Professional Counselors, Clinical
Mental Health Counselors, Licensed Clinical Mental Health
Counselors, and/or Licensed Professional Clinical
Counselors. It is the STUDENTS’ responsibility to
determine the license requirements for their respective
state, and to meet the requirements of their state for
____________________________________________
licensure. The DMU School of Counseling Clinical Mental
Health Counseling program is designed to meet the
educational curricular requirements of the State of Virginia,
the resident state of Divine Mercy University. By virtue of
alignment with industry standards for counseling program
curriculum, the CMHC program may meet the educational
requirements for students’ state of residence outside of the
State of Virginia. However, many states have additional
educational and other requirements that are beyond the
scope of this program. Students are required to explore
and determine the license requirements of their state in
the first course of the program, COUN 510, Foundations and
Ethics of Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Licensure Disclaimers
A license to practice is required by each state and/or
jurisdiction where individuals might practice as a
counselor. It is the responsibility of each student to
determine the license requirements for their respective
state or jurisdiction, and to meet the requirements of their
state or jurisdiction for licensure. license laws for each
state may be found by visiting each state’s licensing board
website, and through the American Counseling Association
website:
https://www.counseling.org/knowledge-center/licensurer
equirements.
Students living as residents outside of the USA are

responsible for meeting the license requirements for their
country/province or jurisdiction. the University’s clinical
mental health counseling program is designed to meet the
educational curricular requirements of the Commonwealth
of Virginia, the resident state of the University. By virtue of
____________________________________________
alignment with industry standards for the counseling
program curriculum, the CMHC program may meet the
educational requirements for students’ state of residence
outside of the State of Virginia. However, some states have
additional educational and other requirements that are
beyond the scope of the University program.
Disclaimer for Students Who Move From their Current

State of Residence
The University does not offer the clinical mental health

counseling program in the states of Arkansas, Delaware,
Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, New Hampshire, New
York, Ohio, and Oregon. Due to the educational
requirements for counseling licensure in these states, if a
student moves to any of these states prior to graduation he
or she will not be able to proceed with the CMHC program.
Additionally, if a student moves to one of these states after
graduation, the CMHC program will not meet the education
requirements for professional licensure in those states.
Practicum/Internship Site Disclaimer
Students are responsible for finding their own “site”, under

the supervision of their Director of Training and
Internships, to complete their practicum and internship
hours. Please see the Program Handbook for details
regarding the site approval process. Prior to enrollment,
potential students who live in remote or rural areas should
consider whether or not a sufficient opportunity exists to
complete their practicum and internship hours, and to do
so with proper supervision. In other words, if the nearest
counseling center is 100 miles away, a student needs to
carefully assess their ability to consistently complete the
commute needed to complete their practicum and
internship hours. The completion of practicum and
____________________________________________
internship is mandatory for every student and cannot be
waived.
State-specific Disclaimer List
Please note the disclaimers below for state-specific

exceptions to the total credit hours and/or total
practicum/internship hours required for this degree. The
Student is responsible for staying up-to-date on their State
Specific disclaimers and notices regardless of what is listed
herein.
Disclaimer for USA Territories and Countries outside

of the USA
The Divine Mercy University Clinical Mental Health

Counseling program is designed to meet the educational
curricular requirements of Virginia, within the U.S.A. This
program is not designed to meet licensure or certification
standards for USA territories or any country foreign to the
USA. By virtue of alignment with USA industry standards
for the counseling program curriculum, the CMHC program
may meet the educational requirements for USA territories
or foreign countries; however, students are responsible for
determining the licensure or certification requirements for
any USA territory or foreign country in which they intend
to practice.
Disclaimer for California
In California, counseling students must complete a course

in Psychopharmacology in order to meet the educational
requirements for licensure. To meet this requirement,
Divine Mercy University counseling students in the state of
____________________________________________
California are required to complete an additional course:
COUN 720 (Psychopharmacology).
Disclaimer for Florida
In Florida, counseling students must complete a course in

Counseling in Community Settings in order to meet the
educational requirements for licensure. To meet this
requirement, the University counseling students in the
state of Florida are required to complete an additional
course: COUN 710 (Clinical Supervision and Consultation
for Community Mental Health). Counseling students in
Florida are also required to complete a course in Human
Sexuality in order to meet the educational requirements for
licensure. To meet this requirement, the University
counseling students in the state of Florida are required to
complete an additional course: COUN 720 (Human
Sexuality). Additionally, counseling students in Florida are
required to complete 1,000 hours of supervised clinical
practicum/internship. To meet this requirement, the
University counseling students in the state of Florida are
required to complete an additional internship course:
COUN 693 (Advanced Internship).
Disclaimer for Hawaii
In Hawaii, counseling students must complete 300 hours of

client contact with a licensed supervisor in
practicum/internship. The University standard curriculum
requires 40 hours of direct service for practicum and 240
hours for internship = 280 hours. To meet this
state of Hawaii need to complete an additional 20 hours of
direct service/ client contact.
____________________________________________
Disclaimer for Indiana
In Indiana, counseling students must complete a course in

Contextual Dimensions in order to meet the educational
requirements for licensure. To meet this requirement, the
University counseling students in the state of Indiana are
required to complete an additional course: COUN 710
(Clinical Supervision and Consultation for Community
Mental Health). Additionally, counseling students in
Indiana are required to complete a 900-hour internship
(300 hours of which must be in advanced internship). To
meet this requirement, the University counseling students
in the state of Indiana are required to complete an
additional internship course: COUN 693 (Advanced
Internship).
Disclaimer for Maine
n Maine, counseling students are required to complete a

900-hour internship in order to meet the educational
requirements for the LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional
Counselor) credential. To meet this requirement, the
University counseling students in the state of Maine are
required to complete an additional internship course:
COUN 693 (Advanced Internship).
Disclaimer for Michigan
In Michigan, counseling students must complete a course

in clinical consultation in order to meet the educational
requirements for licensure. To meet this licensure
state of Michigan are required to complete an additional
course: COUN 710 (Clinical Supervision and Consultation
for Community Mental Health).
____________________________________________
Disclaimer for Minnesota
In Minnesota, the University CMHC program meets the

educational requirements for the Licensed Professional
Counselor (LPC) credential; however, it does not meet the
Clinical Counselor (LPCC) credential.
Disclaimer for Nevada
In Nevada, counseling students must complete their

practicum and internship over a period of 52 weeks in
order to meet the educational requirements for licensure.
To meet this licensure requirement, the University
students in the state of Nevada are required to complete a
third internship course: COUN 693 (Advanced Internship).
Disclaimer for Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, counseling students must complete a

minimum of twelve (12) semesters of supervised
practicum/internship and a minimum of one (1) calendar
year of supervised internship consisting of twenty (20)
hours per week to meet the educational requirements for
licensure. To meet this licensure requirement, the
University students in the state of Rhode Island are
required to complete a third internship course: COUN 693
(Advanced Internship).
Disclaimer for Utah
In Utah, counseling students must complete a total of

1,000 clock hours for their practicum and internship in
order to meet the educational requirements for licensure.
To meet this licensure requirement, the University
____________________________________________
students in the state of Utah are required to complete a
third internship course: COUN 693 (Advanced Internship).
Disclaimer for Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, counseling students must complete a course

in professional counseling orientation to meet the
Counselor (LPC) credential. To meet this licensure
requirement, DMU counseling students in the state of
Wisconsin are required to complete an additional course:
COUN 740 (Advanced Seminar: Professional Orientation,
Law, and Ethical Standards of Professional Counseling).
Admission
Admission Requirements and Process

Individuals interested in the Master of Science in
Counseling Program can apply for admission at any time,
and will be considered in the next admissions cycle. Please
consult the website for deadlines, state-specific
regulations, and other information.
Admission requirements are:
1. Bachelor's Degree: Have completed a bachelor's degree
from a regionally accredited college or university with a
minimum overall 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale, or 3.0 GPA in
their major field of study, or a minimum 3.0 GPA for the
last 60 credits in their undergraduate degree.
a. International applicants must have completed the
equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's level degree.
Applicants holding degrees from outside the United
States must submit any international transcript(s)
____________________________________________
to a NACES approved evaluation service for a
course-by-course evaluation of their transcripts. For
more information, please visit the NACES website
at: www.naces.org.
b. International Students whose first language is not
English or who have not completed a degree in
which English was the medium of instruction must
have taken the Test of English as a Foreign
Language (TOEFL) or the International English
Language Testing System (IELTS) within the past
two years, and the scores must be submitted
directly to DMU by the testing agency. TOEFL
scores must be at least 100 on the Internet-based
version (IBT), 250 on the computer-based version
(CBT), and 600 on the paper-based version (PBT).
Academic IELTS scores must fall into the overall
band of at least 7.0, with no individual band scores
below 6.0.
c. Students with a lower GPA may document their
ability to succeed in a graduate program in one of
the following ways:
i. Score above the 50th percentile on the GRE
(verbal reasoning, quantitative reason, and
analytic writing)
ii. Complete a minimum of nine (9) graduate-level
credit hours from a regionally accredited college
or university with a minimum overall 3.0 GPA on
a 4.0 scale and a minimum 3.0 ("B") grade in each
course.
iii. Have completed a master's degree from an
accredited college or university with a minimum
overall 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
____________________________________________
2. GRE: Submit scores on the Graduate Record
Examination (GRE) General Test that includes all three
sections (verbal reasoning, quantitative reason, and
analytic writing).
3. Potential Fit: Show evidence of potential success in
forming effective and culturally appropriate
interpersonal relationships in individual and
small-group contexts and career goals relevant to the
CMHC program. Please see application for list of
requirements such as letter of recommendation, essays,
etc.
4. Individual Interview: Following the receipt of all
application items, applicants meeting the initial
requirements will be invited to participate in an
individual phone, personal, and/or online video
interview.
5. Group Interview: After a successful individual
interview, applicants will be invited to participate in an
online video group interview with DMU-SOC faculty.
Admission will not be granted to those who do not
participate in the group interview. Special
arrangements may be made for exceptional cases.
The final determination of admittance is based on the
Faculty Admissions Committee.
Admissions Process for International

Students, Online Programs
All Admissions Requirements for international students
are the same as for any student.. In addition to submitting
all the required application materials and meeting the
____________________________________________
requirements listed, there are two additional requirements
that may apply:
● Applicants holding degrees from outside the United

States must arrange to have any international
transcript(s) translated and a “Course-by-Course”
evaluation completed and sent directly to the
University from a University-approved evaluation
service. In addition, official transcripts must also be
sent directly to the University from the institution(s).
● Applicants whose native language is not English must

have taken the Test of English as a Foreign Language
(TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing
System (IELTS) within the past two years. TOEFL
scores must be at least 100 on the internet-based
TOEFL (iBT), 250 on the computer-based (CBT), and
600 on the paper-based (PBT) version. Academic IELTS
scores must fall into the overall band of at least 7.0,
with no individual band scores below 6.0. Test results
must be sent directly from the testing agency, which
only make them available for up to two years from the
test date.
Statement of Non-Discrimination (DMU)

The University admits to its programs qualified students of
any age, race, gender, color, nationality or ethnic origin.
Applicants should understand that the central mission of
Divine Mercy University is the development of a Christian
approach to the psychological sciences. The University
welcomes qualified students of any religious faith;
nonetheless, all students who seek admission must
sincerely desire to share the University’s mission and
objectives. Given its distinct and unique goal of integrating
____________________________________________
with the Catholic view of the person, the degree programs
at the University differ from traditional programs in their
approach, while maintaining the rigor in both the quantity
and quality of clinical training.
Deferral of Enrollment, Online Students

Admission is granted only for the semester to which the
applicant applies. Deferral of enrollment does not
guarantee deferral of financial aid package. An applicant
failing to register for the semester for which he or she has
received acceptance can request that their application
remain active for up to one year, and can be renewed upon
review for an additional year. In all cases, the applicant
understands that admission to a future semester is not
guaranteed, and their application will be re-considered
with the pool of applicants for the semester he or she
choose to apply;
The request to maintain an active application file must be

received in writing by the Office of Admissions prior to the
application deadline for the semester initially applied for
admission.
To activate a deferred application, the applicant must
notify the Office of Admissions, in writing, at least 30 days
prior to the semester for which he or she desires to enroll.
The deferred applicant must meet current admission
and/or degree requirements adopted since original
application may be required as well. The applicant is
required to update any changes to the original application,
and update materials on file to reflect his or her work or
study since the time of their original application, including
updated:
____________________________________________
1. Personal Statement “A” explaining how their current
goals coincide with study at the University;
2. Official transcripts reflecting any academic work
completed since the original submission;
3. Acknowledgement of applicant terms;
4. Interviews, as applicable.
Re-Application for Admission of

Previously-Enrolled Students (DMU)
Students who have withdrawn from the University in good
standing may re-apply for admission. If their
re-application is within three years of their withdrawal,
they are not required to re-submit official transcripts from
their education prior to the University but should be
prepared to submit the following:
1. revised application form, including updated contact
information;
2. revised Personal Statement “A,” stating the reasons
for their desire to return to complete their studies
at the University;
3. official transcripts reflecting any academic work
completed during the time they have been away
from the University;
4. at least one letter of recommendation from a
professor or employer which reflects the applicant’s
accomplishments or abilities in the time they have
been away from the University; and,
5. application fee of $55.
The student will be required to adhere to the admission
and degree requirements adopted since original
____________________________________________
matriculation or to special requirements imposed as a
condition of re-admission, such as repetition of certain
examinations or courses.
If it has been more than three years since the student’s

withdrawal they must re-submit all application materials
as required by the Office of Admissions.
Students who have financial obligations to the University

are ineligible for re-admission until their obligations are
satisfied.
Students who have left the program and who were not in
good standing may apply for admission to the program
following the normal admission process.
____________________________________________
Enrollment
M.S. Counseling Enrollment Status

A student in the M.S. Counseling Program is considered
full-time if the student is: a) enrolled in a minimum of nine
credit hours for two of the three previous semesters or b)
enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours each semester
and is enrolled in a practicum or internship course.
For summer, enrollment a student must be enrolled for a

minimum of six credits to be full-time and a minimum of
three credits are needed for a student to be half-time.
Students starting in the summer semester and students
who have received approval from their academic advisor
will be considered full-time with a minimum of three
credits in summer.
If a reduced course load changes a student’s enrollment

status from full-time to part-time, it is the student’s
responsibility to recognize the possible consequences (i.e.
potential reduction of financial aid awards, SEVIS status,
degree completion time, etc.) and take necessary action
with the corresponding office (Financial Aid, International
Student Coordinator, Registrar, Academic Advisor, etc.)
Course-for-Credit or Audit (DMU)

Degree seeking students
Any degree seeking student enrolled in a University

program may choose to audit a course during registration
____________________________________________
for a semester, with the approval of their academic advisor
and subject to the enrollment limitations listed below.
Non-degree students
An individual not currently enrolled in a DMU degree

program who wishes to take a course for credit or audit,
must apply and be accepted as a non-degree seeking
student.
To be accepted as a non-degree seeking student,

applicants must submit a completed application, official
undergraduate and graduate (if applicable) transcript(s),
resume, and the required application fee. Personal
statements, GRE scores, letters of recommendation and
interviews are not required. Applicants for non-degree
seeking status must have an appropriate baccalaureate
degree. The application for admission as a non-degree
seeking student is subject to review and approval, prior to
course registration, and registration is subject to the
enrollment limitations that follow.
Students receiving permission to register on a

course-for-credit or audit basis are neither admitted nor
guaranteed admission to a degree program.
Requirements for Degree-Seeking and

Non-Degree-Seeking Students
Enrollment as an auditing student is subject to limitations

of class size with priority given to degree seeking students
enrolled for credit. Any individual requesting to audit a
course must meet all requirements for the course,
including prerequisites.
____________________________________________
For any student (degree-seeking and non-degree-seeking)
taking a course-for-credit or audit, attendance is required
(see “Class Attendance”). Auditing students do not
participate in classroom discussions and do not submit
work for grading. No academic credit is awarded for an
audited course. Audit tuition is approximately one-half of
the current regular tuition.
A student currently taking a course on an audit basis may

petition through the Office of Enrollment Services to switch
to a “course-for-credit” basis. However, such petitions
must be submitted and approved prior to the add/drop
period for the respective academic program.
Students who have previously audited a class for which

they later wish to receive credit must enroll in the same
course in a subsequent term or semester, for credit, by
registering and paying the regular tuition. In such cases,
students are required to fulfill all the course requirements
while enrolled in the course for credit.
A limited selection of courses may be taken on a

course-for-credit or audit basis.
M.S. in Counseling Courses Available for

Audit and Non-Degree Student
Only the following courses are eligible to be taken by
non-degree students (unless special permission is received
from the Dean): PHT 513 The Flourishing Person, PHT 523
Moral Character and Spiritual Flourishing, PHT 533
Flourishing in Relationships, COUN 510 Foundations and
Ethics of Clinical Mental Health Counseling, COUN 520
Theories and Models of Counseling and Personality, COUN
530 Human Growth and Development across the Lifespan,
____________________________________________
COUN 560 Social and Cultural Diversity, and COUN 570
Marriage and Family Systems Theory. Students receiving
permission to register course-for-credit or audit are not
admitted nor guaranteed admission to a program.
Criteria for Transfer of Credit (DMU)

Students wishing to apply for transfer of credit to the
University must be enrolled in a degree program and must
submit the appropriate transfer of credit form (obtained
from the Office of Enrollment Services) to the Program
Director prior to the end of the second semester in which
they are enrolled in their degree program. This request will
be reviewed by the Dean who will notify the student of the
decision regarding the request.
Transfer of graduate credits earned at other institutions is

not automatic. Only graduate credit for courses
determined to be equivalent to courses offered at the
University can be transferred for course credit.
1. A maximum of 12 graduate credits will be considered

for transfer from another regionally accredited or
approved (non-U.S.) graduate program. No graduate
credit can be awarded for undergraduate-level courses.
a. No transfer of credit will be accepted for the
following courses: PHT 513 The Flourishing Person,
PHT 523 Moral Character and Spiritual Flourishing,
PHT 533 Flourishing in Relationships, COUN 510
Foundations and Ethics of Clinical Mental Health
Counseling, COUN 580 Counseling Skills and
Helping Relationships, COUN 630 Clinical Diagnosis
and Treatment Planning, COUN 690 Counseling
Practicum/Advanced Clinical Intervention Skills,
____________________________________________
and COUN 691 & COUN 692 Counseling Internship 1
& 2.
b. All transferred courses must be a grade of “B” or
above, and must have been completed within the
last five (5) years.
c. Transfer credit must be approved by the student's
advisor, the dean, and registrar.
2. A maximum of 24 credits will be considered for
graduate level students transferring from DMU
Institute for the Psychological Sciences programs in
psychology.
a. Students who have graduated from DMU Institute
for the Psychological Sciences programs in
psychology must have graduated within the last five
(5) years.
b. No transfer of credit will be accepted for the
following courses: COUN 630 Clinical Diagnosis and
Treatment Planning, COUN 690 Counseling
Practicum/Advanced Clinical Intervention Skills,
and COUN 691 & COUN 692 Counseling Internship 1
& 2.
c. All transferred courses must be a grade of “B” or
above, and must have been completed within the
last five (5) years.
d. Transfer credit must be approved by the student's
advisor, the dean, and registrar.
____________________________________________
Life Experiences and Course Exemptions
(DMU)
The University does not permit course exemptions for life
experiences.
Registration for Classes (DMU)

Attendance at any University class is not permitted unless
the person is registered for the class. Students whose
accounts are not current will not be permitted to register
for classes. Students registering for a course-for-credit or
audit must register no later than the last day of the
published add/drop period each semester or term.
For onsite programs
For planning purposes, fall semester registration for

returning students takes place in April of the preceding
academic year and spring and summer semester
registration for returning students takes place in
November of each year. New student registration opens in
June. Any student registering for courses outside of the
published registration period are subject to a late
registration fee.
For online programs
Registration occurs automatically. Notification is given

prior to the start of the term, if a student does not wish to
continue they must contact Enrollment Services.
____________________________________________
Add/Drop Course Change Policy (DMU)
Students are permitted to add or drop courses without
incurring an academic record of the course throughout the
published registration period and during the published
Add/Drop Period, with the approval of their Academic
Advisor and Registrar. This is two days from the published
start of term for five week courses, six calendar days for
eight week courses, and ten business days for sixteen week
courses. Please note that classes meeting in an intensive
format or on a shortened semester calendar follow
adjusted add/drop and refund schedules.
Course changes made after the published Add/Drop period

will be recorded in the student’s academic record (as
described in the following paragraph) and require the
approval of the instructor, academic advisor, and registrar.
Course changes other than as described above, require the
signature of the instructor, academic advisor, and registrar.
All registration changes are subject to the Registration
Change Fee (Add/Drop Fee) and the Refund Policy of their
respective program.
A student who follows the published course change

procedures may drop or withdraw from courses after the
published Add/Drop Period and prior to the published
“Last Day to Withdraw and Receive a “W” and receive a
Final Grade of Withdrawal (“W”). After the published “Last
Date to Withdraw and Receive a “W” each academic
semester, a student who withdraws from a course will be
assigned a Final Grade of either Withdrawal Passing
(“WP”) or Withdrawal Failing (“WF”) by the instructor
based upon actual work completed at the time of the
withdrawal. A “W” or “WP” will not affect the student’s
____________________________________________
cumulative grade point average. A WF is treated as a failing
grade for grade point average computation.
Leave of Absence (DMU)

A student enrolled in a degree program of the University
might find it necessary to interrupt active pursuit of their
degree. A leave of absence is granted only for good cause.
Generally, a leave of absence is granted for a minimum of
one academic semester for onsite programs or two
consecutive terms for online programs, and for a maximum
of one academic year. Requests will be considered prior to
the beginning of an academic semester. For any request
made during the academic semester, the final grade in any
course will be assigned following the University’s
withdrawal policy.
A student seeking a leave of absence should discuss the

need with his or her academic advisor and must petition
the Program Director. A leave of absence must be approved
in writing by both the Program Director and the Academic
Dean.
The right to make use of the University’s facilities is

suspended while the leave of absence is in effect. The
student who discontinues active enrollment in courses
without being granted a leave of absence, or a student
granted a leave of absence who does not return to active
enrollment in courses at the close of the approved period
of time will be considered withdrawn, and must apply for
re-admission to the degree program, subject to the
regulations and requirements then in force. In such cases,
acceptance into the program is not guaranteed, and any
courses taken prior to the interruption of enrollment may
____________________________________________
not count toward graduation if they were not completed
within the time allowed for degree completion.
Students receiving federal financial aid are required to

receive counseling from the Financial Aid Office prior to
being granted a leave of absence. While DMU policy may
allow students a leave of absence of up to one calendar
year, students who take advantage of this policy may be
required to begin repayment of Title IV federal loans.
Students who are participating in Title IV federal financial
aid programs may be granted a leave of absence of up to
180 days in a calendar year without entering repayment.
Withdrawal from the University (DMU)

A withdrawal from the University is defined as dropping all
registered courses or failure to enroll each semester prior
to completing all requirements for graduation. To
withdraw from the University at any time other than the
close of the semester, students are required to consult their
academic advisor and the Financial Aid Office, complete the
University’s withdrawal procedure with the Office of
Enrollment Services, and obtain official written notification
of withdrawal. Discontinuation of class attendance or
notification to an instructor of withdrawal does not
constitute an official withdrawal from the University. Any
student who completes the withdrawal procedure will be
assigned a grade of Withdrawal (W), Withdrawal Passing
(WP), or Withdrawal Failing (WF) as stated in the
University’s Add\Drop Course Change Policy. Refunds will
be made in accordance with the University’s refund policy.
In instances where the University’s withdrawal procedure
is not completed, students will be responsible for the full
payment of their accounts.
____________________________________________
A student who withdraws from the Institute and wishes to
continue coursework at the University must re-apply for
admission following all applicable procedures required and
pay the appropriate re-application fees.
Transcripts (DMU)
Official and Unofficial Academic Transcripts are issued to
designated parties by the Office of Enrollment Services,
with the written approval of the student. Students may also
obtain unofficial copies of their Academic Transcripts via
their student portal. Academic Transcripts cannot be
transmitted by the University electronically. Students must
have satisfied his or her student account for an Official
Academic Transcript to be issued.
Enrollment Verification (DMU)

A request for written verification of current or former
attendance at the university, degrees earned, etc., may be
supplied to a third party. Contact the Enrollment Services
Office for the appropriate forms.
International Student Visa Requirements

(DMU)
International Students enrolled in onsite programs or in
program-required residencies, are required to maintain
valid immigration status throughout their stay in the
United States at the University. To maintain F-1 Student
Status, international students must:
____________________________________________
● enroll in a full-time course of study at the beginning of
each session (excluding authorized break periods);
● consult with their Primary Designated School Official
(PDSO or DSO) before dropping below a full-time
course of study for any reason;
● report address changes to their DSO within 10 days of
the Change;
● report any changes in sources of financial support to
the DSO;
● seek the approval of the DSO and USCIS before
engaging in employment or practical training;
● report any changes in program of study to the DSO
within 10 days of the Change;
● report any changes of their academic status to the DSO
within 10 days of the Change;
● notify their DSO prior to traveling outside of the United
States;
● notify their DSO upon applying for a change in
nonimmigrant status;
● notify their DSO upon approval of an adjustment of
status to an immigrant;
● consult with their DSO to extend their program;
● notify their DSO if they intend to transfer;
● notify their DSO about changes in their dependent
status.
A person whose immigration status is not valid is not
considered a current student, and cannot register for
____________________________________________
classes, participate in the University’s activities, or apply
for readmission or admission to a degree program.
For more information on maintaining student status,

please go to
http://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students/maintain-your-s
tatus.
For more information for requirements for studying and

working while in the U.S., please go to
http://www.ice.gov/sevis/students/.
Computer and Internet Requirements (DMU)

Students in online programs are required to have access to
the internet and be proficient in the use of computers prior
to entry into the program. All course material and course
communication are delivered through the internet-based
learning management system, Canvas®.
This is a list of basic computer system requirements to use

Canvas®. It is always recommended to use the most
up-to-date versions and better connections. Canvas® will
still run with the minimum specifications, but you may
experience slower loading times.
Canvas® and its hosting infrastructure are designed for
maximum compatibility and minimal requirements.
Screen Size
Canvas® is best viewed at a minimum of 800x600, which is
the average size of a notebook computer. If you want to
view Canvas® on a device with a smaller screen, we
recommend using the Canvas® mobile app.
____________________________________________
Operating Systems
● Windows 7 and newer (users on Windows 10 need to

download the Windows 10 Anniversary Update to
submit Canvas® assignments)
● Mac OSX 10.6 and newer
● Linux - chromeOS
Mobile Operating System Native App Support
● iOS 7 and newer (versions vary by device)

● Android 4.2 and newer\
Computer Speed and Processor
● Use a computer 5 years old or newer when possible

● 1GB of RAM
● 2GHz processor
Internet Speed
● Along with compatibility and web standards, Canvas®

has been carefully crafted to accommodate low
bandwidth environments
● Minimum of 512kbps
Screen Readers
● Macintosh: VoiceOver (latest version for Safari)

● PC: JAWS (latest version for Internet Explorer)
● PC: NVDA (latest version for Firefox)
● There is no screen reader support for Canvas® in
Chrome
____________________________________________
Please use the following link for the latest specifications:
https://community.canvaslms.com/docs/DOC-10721
Program Requirements
M.S. Counseling Degree Requirements

Students must satisfy the following academic and clinical
requirements in order to graduate:
1. Complete all practicum, and internship requirements.
2. Complete all required hours of specified coursework
with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and no grade lower than a
"B."
3. Fulfill the course requirements of COUN 500 Counseling
Advisement each semester.
4. Take and pass the Counselor Preparation
Comprehensive Examination (CPCE) with a minimum
raw score of 88 (65% Correct) to graduate from the
program.
5. Receive a satisfactory faculty recommendation based
upon the final Professional Performance Review.
Please see Program Handbook for information on the
Professional Performance Review process.
Core Curriculum Content

Eight common core areas of knowledge and skill for
entry-level counseling program graduates represent
industry standards established by the Council for
____________________________________________
Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational
Programs (CACREP). The eight core areas are covered
within CMHC program curricula, and are evaluated for
student assimilation and application of knowledge and
skills throughout the program by faculty and ultimately by
clinical placement site supervisors. Student Learning
Outcomes are aligned with these core areas. The eight core
areas are outlined as follows (CACREP, 2015, p. 9-13):
1. Professional Counseling Orientation and Ethical

Practice
2. Social and Cultural Diversity
3. Human Growth and Development
4. Career Development
5. Counseling and Helping Relationships
6. Group Counseling and Group Work
7. Assessment and Testing
8. Research and Program Evaluation
MS Counseling Course List

(Non-SEQUENTIAL ORDER)
COURSE
COURSE TITLE
NUMBER
COUN 500 Counseling Advisement
Foundations and Ethics of Clinical Mental

COUN 510 Health Counseling (ends with a 4 day
Residency)
Theories and Models of Counseling and

COUN 520
Personality
____________________________________________
Human Growth and Development across
COUN 530
the Lifespan
COUN 540 Career Development
COUN 550 Research and Program Evaluation
COUN 560 Social and Cultural Diversity
COUN 570 Marriage and Family Systems Theory
Counseling Skills and Helping

COUN 580 Relationships (includes a 4 day
Residency)
Developmental Psychopathology -- Risk

COUN 600
and Resilience
COUN 610 Group Counseling and Group Work
Assessment and Testing across the

COUN 620
Lifespan
Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment

COUN 630
Planning
Crisis & Trauma -- Prevention and

COUN 640
Treatment
COUN 650 Addictions Counseling
COUN 660 Child and Adolescent Counseling
COUN 670 Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
____________________________________________
Counseling Practicum/Advanced Clinical
COUN 690 Intervention Skills (10 week course;
includes a 4 day Residency)
Counseling Internship 1 (16 weeks - 2

COUN 691
terms)
Counseling Internship 2 (16 weeks - 2

COUN 692
terms)
Vocations and Virtues: The Flourishing

PHT 513
Person
PHT 523 Moral Character and Spiritual Flourishing
PHT 533 Flourishing in Relationships
Semester Model, Course Length, and Credit

Hours*
The M.S. in Counseling program includes 22 credit bearing
courses for a total of 66 credit hours. DMU operates using a
Fall, Spring, and Summer semester model, with two 8-week
terms in the Fall and Spring semesters, and one 8-week
term during the Summer. DMU courses satisfy
requirements for 3 semester credits provided for each
course with a few exceptions. The following courses differ:
● COUN 500i, Counseling Program Orientation Course

($50/ zero credit) must be completed
● COUN 500, Advisement (zero cost/zero credit).
● COUN 690, Practicum and Advanced Counseling Skills:
10-week course (3 credit hours).
____________________________________________
● COUN 691, Internship 1: 16-week course (1 full
semester, or 2 terms and 3 credit hours).
● COUN 692, Internship 2: 16-week course (1 full
semester, or 2 terms and 3 credit hours).
*The course list and descriptions are located in the Course
Description section of the Catalog.
Program Practicum and Internship Hours

1. The Master of Science in Counseling program requires
66 credit hours for graduation.
2. A practicum experience of 100 hours with a minimum
of 40 hours of direct services and an internship of 600
hours with a minimum of 240 hours of direct service
are required as part of the 66 course credits. Practicum
service hours are separate from internship hours.
Students may not move forward with internship until
all Practicum (COUN 690) course requirements are
fulfilled. The total clinical placement minimum is 700
hours.
3. A few states may require more than 600 hours of
Internship. COUN 693 is available for those students.
Students are responsible for verifying state license
requirements for Internship completion in their
respective state of residence.
Professional Behavior Expectations and

Requirements
Candidates in the CMHC program leading to certification or
licensure as professional counselors are subject to a high
level of scrutiny because of their anticipated interactions
____________________________________________
with clients and others in the community, expectations for
personal growth and transformation, and the clinical
nature of program standards. As CMHC degree candidates,
students participate in one or more clinical placements (i.e.
practicum and internships) as part of their academic
program, and as prospective counselors, SOC degree
candidates are expected to represent the university as
professionals and adhere to the ethics and standards of
their profession as well as the university’s Student Code of
Conduct.
Remediation and Dismissal From Program*

Graduation with a degree in Clinical Mental Health
Counseling requires more than passing grades and
scholarly ability. Students must reach adequate levels of
competency in counseling skills such as interviewing, client
intake, assessment, treatment planning and
intervention/psychotherapy. Students must possess the
ability to exercise good clinical judgment, ethical reasoning,
respect for diversity and professionalism. It is the solemn
responsibility of DMU to serve as a gatekeeper for the
profession and to ensure that students who are unable to
meet these standards be terminated from the program.
The remediation process begins with the identification of a

clinical skill and/or an academic deficiency by a clinical
supervisor and/or clinical course instructor and/or clinical
training director. The identification of the deficiency is
followed up by a meeting between the clinical
supervisor/course instructor together with the clinical
training director who meet to clarify the deficiency and
consider necessary criteria for remediation. Following this
protocol, a meeting is held to obtain student input and to
____________________________________________
finalize a formal remediation plan which is then signed by all
parties. Once all the steps in the remediation plan are
completed, the clinical training director drafts a remediation
completion document which is signed by the student and the
clinical training director. The signing of this document
officially marks the successful completion of remediation for
the skill deficiency identified. The remediation plan will
outline distinct objectives with timelines for reaching each
targeted deficiency.
In matters of serious gravity (e.g., severe ethical violations) or

in the event that the student repeatedly fails remediation
and/or does not complete the outlined objectives as agreed,
they may be deemed “at risk.” A student determined to be “at
risk” and fails to meet the remediation plan requirements in
the designated time is eligible for termination from the
program. In such cases, the Director of Clinical Training and
clinical faculty members will deliberate and vote on whether
or not to terminate the student from the program or
alternatively to develop an additional plan for remediation.
An affirmative vote to terminate by a simple majority of the
current clinical faculty members will result in the student
being terminated from the program. The student will be
notified in writing of the decision.
In the case of a student who is not deemed to be “at risk,” but

who is placed on a remediation plan, and fails to successfully
complete the requirements of their remediation plan in the
designated time frame, may after the deliberation of the
Director of Clinical Training and the clinical faculty be
designated “at risk.” In such cases the student will be
formally notified of such status. The Director of Clinical
Training and the clinical faculty will then revise the
pre-existing remediation plan noting the requirements which
remain unmet and establishing a new time frame for
____________________________________________
completion. If the student remains unable to meet the
requirements of the revised remediation plan in the
designated time frame, the Director of Clinical Training and
clinical faculty members will deliberate and vote on whether
or not to terminate the student from the program or
alternatively to develop an additional plan for remediation.
An affirmative vote to terminate by a simple majority of the
current clinical faculty members will result in the student
being dropped from the program. The student will be
notified in writing of the decision.
In cases where an affirmative vote to terminate a student

from the program is made, the student may appeal the
decision to the Academic Dean. Such appeal must be made
within 30 days following notification by the department of
their termination from the program. The Academic Dean will
consider the appeal and render his/her decision within 30
days of receipt of the student’s request for appeal. The
Academic Dean’s decision will be final.
*Acknowledgement is made to the Counseling Program at College of
William and Mary for this model of professional performance review and
the Association for Spiritual, Ethical, Religious Values in Counseling
(ASERVIC: A Division of American Counseling Association) for their model of
spiritual competencies.
Residency Information and Attendance

There are three 4-day residencies embedded within 3
courses within the 22 course program. The in-person
workshops provide opportunities to interact with faculty
and peers, to practice counseling skills and professional
presentations, to enhance aspects of professional
development, and to network within the counseling
community. Students are required to travel to the arranged
____________________________________________
location for each residency workshop and attend the full
duration of the residency.
Residencies begin on Wednesday with an informal Meet

and Greet. Attendance is mandatory. Classroom
instructions begin on Thursday and conclude the following
Sunday at approximately 1:30 PM. Students must arrange
flight schedules to arrive on Wednesday afternoon or
evening, and depart the residency with flight times no
earlier than 4:00 pm on Sunday. Arriving late or leaving
early is unacceptable constituting an unexcused absence
and will result in a failed grade for the course. Residency
attendance is not optional. Attendance for each day’s full
agenda is required. Absences from any part of a residency
will result in a failed grade for the class associated with the
residency. Please plan your travel arrangement
accordingly.
All costs related to travel,, and meals for the in-person

portion of the residency courses are the sole responsibility
of the student and are not covered by financial aid.
Students are required to stay at the hotel hosting the
residency. Lodging costs (double occupancy) are a direct
expense and are covered by financial aid.
Residencies are included in the following courses:
● COUN 510 -- Foundations and Ethics for Clinical Mental

Health Counselors Beginning of year 1
● COUN 580 -- Counseling Skills and Helping
Relationships Beginning of year 2
● COUN 690 -- Counseling Practicum and Advanced
Clinical Intervention Skills First week of Practicum
You must bring your own laptop computer, compatible

tablet or other electronic device capable of high speed
____________________________________________
Internet connectivity for uploading and downloading
documents when required. Homework may be assigned on
Thursday and Friday to prepare for the following day’s
workshop.
Each residency is an important milestone in the

development of professional counseling skills. The
residencies provide students with opportunities for
personal growth and professional development, to
demonstrate skills and apply learning through face-to-face
counseling situations. The residency workshops are a great
benefit for students in this program. Not only do the
workshops allow students to receive constructive feedback
on skill development, they also ensure that students are
progressing through their mastery of skill at the pace
required for the program. The workshops allow students to
demonstrate readiness for the next phases in their
program and adequately prepare for the professional
counseling field. Students must pass each residency to
move onto the next sequence of the program.
Candidacy for Clinical Placement

1. Admission to Candidacy for Clinical Placement in the
Master of Science in Counseling program is a
checkpoint to ensure that students are progressing
appropriately in their professional skills, academic
understanding, and personal and spiritual development
in order to continue toward internship and graduation.
2. Students who wish to pursue candidacy may not be on
academic probation.
____________________________________________
3. Students are responsible for submitting their
application to candidacy to their Director of Training
and Internship.
4. Details of the application process for candidacy are
detailed in the Program Handbook.
Counselor Preparation Comprehensive

Examination (CPCE)
1. Students must take and pass the CPCE with a minimum
raw score of 88 (65% Correct) to graduate from the
program. The CPCE must be taken at the end of the
semester that the student is enrolled in COUN
691,Counseling Internship I. Students should note that
they must study and prepare for this test.
2. If students fail the Comprehensive Examination, they
must contact their advisor to go over the results of the
exam. They must identify needed areas of improvement
and work toward preparing for their next exam
attempt.
3. Students may take the Comprehensive Examination
three (3) times. If a student fails the Comprehensive
Examination three times, they will be dismissed from
the Counseling Program.
4. A passing score is a requirement for graduation.
5. For test information, go to:
http://www.cce-global.org/AssessmentsAndExaminati
ons/CPCE
____________________________________________
Degree Time Limit
1. Full time students typically complete the program over
a three-year period.
2. The time limit for completion of all requirements is

seven (7) years, measured from the date a student
begins coursework in the Master of Science in
Counseling program.
Graduation Requirements (DMU)

In order to qualify for graduation, all coursework and
curriculum requirements must be completed and all degree
requirements met within the degree time-limit and by the
official graduation date. It is the responsibility of each
student to successfully fulfill all of their degree
requirements, as detailed in each respective program
section of the catalog published at the time of their
enrollment in the degree which they seek.
In addition to the academic requirements, it is necessary

for students to be cleared of all library obligations and to
present a satisfactory clearance of financial accounts prior
to graduation. Students who have not made satisfactory
financial arrangements will not have access to any student
services, including transcripts, diploma verifications,
transfer credits, or enrollment in courses or for another
program.
The University confers degrees upon the recommendation

of the faculty and by the authority of the Board of
Directors, three times a year: August, December, and May.
Students whose degrees are conferred in August or
____________________________________________
December are encouraged to participate in the following
annual May Commencement. Degree conferral and
Commencement dates are posted in the Academic
Calendar. The Graduation Fee covers all aspects of the
degree completion process and will be applied to all
student accounts of degree candidates, regardless of
participation in the Commencement ceremony.
Students who are eligible for graduation (degree

candidates) must submit an Application to Graduate form
to the Registrar, and pay the applicable Graduation Fee, at
the time of registration for their final semester to obtain a
final degree audit and receive the approval of their
respective program director. Materials related to the
Commencement exercises, including orders of invitations
and regalia, will be distributed approximately 90 days
prior to the degree conferral date.
Participation in the Commencement ceremony is allowed

only if all coursework and degree requirements have been
completed prior to the event.
Clinical Programs
Because of the unique schedule of some internship and
practicum/externship experiences, students of clinical
program who have completed all other degree
requirements prior to the Commencement, except for
outstanding internship or practicum/externship hours
(which can be reasonably completed in the summer), may
be eligible to walk at the Commencement with the approval
of the Program Director and Registrar. This special
participation does not signify degree conferral. Once all
degree requirements have been completed with the
____________________________________________
successful conclusion of the internship or externship,
degree conferral will occur in August.
Course Descriptions
COUN 500i Counseling Program Orientation Course
COUN 500i Counseling Program Orientation Course covers the
initial orientation to the School of Counseling and the Clinical
Mental Health Counseling program. This course also introduces
new students to the knowledge, skills, and characteristics
related to being successful in the program. Students gain an
understanding of the conceptual framework that guides the
program and review important elements of the Clinical Mental
Health Counseling program handbook. (0 credit hrs) (Pass/Fail)
COUN 500 Counseling Advisement

COUN 500 Counseling Advisement must be taken each semester a
student is enrolled in the School of Counseling. Students are
encouraged to visit the online course website at least once a week.
Program, professional, and advising meetings may be scheduled
during the student's course of study within this course. This course
provides informational resources to support students in the
program. Resources include information on residencies, faculty,
textbooks, syllabi, program handbook, and the academic catalog. (0
credit hrs) (Pass/Fail)
COUN 510 Foundations and Ethics of Clinical Mental

Health Counseling
COUN 510 Foundations and Ethics of Clinical Mental Health
Counseling introduces students to the profession of clinical
mental health counseling, including professional roles,
identity and functions, the history and philosophy of the
____________________________________________
profession, scope of practice, ethical and professional
practice issues, credentialing, and the role of professional
associations in students’ professional development. Students
will explore the multiple functions of counselors across
specialty areas and the relationships with integrated
behavioral healthcare systems. They will also consider the
importance of advocacy for mental health service needs
across diverse populations. Students will begin to explore and
interpret situations based on federal laws, state regulations,
and professional guidelines and best practices. The course
ends with a 4 day residency to assess and deepen students’
understanding and practice of these foundational concepts in
professional counseling. (3 credit hrs)
COUN 520 Theories and Models of Counseling and

Personality
COUN 520 Theories and Models of Counseling and
Personality introduces students to the primary theoretical
models of personality theory and counseling practice,
including psychodynamic, affective, cognitive behavioral,
humanistic, interpersonal, multicultural, integrative, and
systems theory. A focus on evidence-based practices that
incorporate diversity issues with population-specific
approaches is a significant feature of this course. Emphasis is
on the importance of students recognizing belief systems that
accurately reflect their own personal style and to recognize
strategies and approaches likely to be most successful with a
particular client population. Students will utilize case
conceptualization to demonstrate their understanding of
theoretical foundations as the basis of clinical practice and to
evaluate and assess clinical situations for implementation of
therapeutic interventions that are appropriate with diverse
individuals, groups, and families. (3 credit hrs)
COUN 530 Human Growth and Development across the

____________________________________________
Lifespan
COUN 530 Human Growth and Development across the
Lifespan introduces students to the biological, neurological,
physiological, cognitive, sexual, social, emotional, religious /
spiritual and cultural domains set forth by the major theories
of human growth and development. Developmental theories
such as learning and personality are addressed, as well as
those that are related to individuals, families, the larger social
context, and environment. Students will begin to
conceptualize the needs of their clients within a
developmentally appropriate framework and to develop
culturally sensitive and relevant strategies for promoting
resilience and optimum development, wellness, and
flourishing across the lifespan. (3 credit hrs)
COUN 540 Career Development

COUN 540 Career Development introduces students to
vocational theory and career counseling. Students explore the
historical foundations of vocational theory and are assessed
on understanding strategies for applying career, avocational,
educational, occupational, and labor market information in
client evaluation and assessment of career planning and
decision making. Vocational and career counseling is
examined as an integral component of the overall assessment
and treatment of clients representing diverse populations
found within the scope of community, mental health, and
marriage and family counseling. Students demonstrate
ethical and culturally relevant counseling competencies
necessary in the provision of career and vocational
counseling to diverse clients across the lifespan. (3 credit hrs)
COUN 550 Research and Program Evaluation

COUN 550 Research and Program Evaluation introduces
students to basic research methods and designs, reliability
____________________________________________
and validity of research, evidence based research, and critical
evaluation of published research. Students will be introduced
to scales of measurement, descriptive statistics, and basic
univariate inferential statistics commonly used in counseling
research and program evaluation. Students will demonstrate
understanding of using ethical and culturally relevant
strategies for conducting, interpreting, and reporting
research study results and identify evidence-based
counseling practices as well as strategies for developing and
using outcomes measures in counseling programs. (3 credit
hrs)
COUN 560 Social and Cultural Diversity

COUN 560 Social and Cultural Diversity introduces students
to profession accepted counseling techniques to address the
diverse, cultural context of individuals and their
relationships between and within groups, as well as issues
and trends in a diverse society. The counselor’s role in social
justice and client advocacy are investigated with a focus on
heritage, attitudes, beliefs, understandings, and acculturative
experiences. Comprehensive, advanced knowledge of
diversity factors that include age, ethnicity, nationality,
spirituality, religious preferences, gender, sexual orientation,
mental and physical characteristics, and socioeconomic
status are assessed. Students will assess their own global
orientation to different individual and familial worldviews
through this study of history and development of cultural
values and behaviors and demonstrate their knowledge of
effective counselor multicultural assessment, diagnoses, and
interventions. (3 credit hrs)
COUN 570 Marriage and Family Systems Theory

COUN 570 Marriage and Family Systems Theory introduces
students to the historical and theoretical bases for the
____________________________________________
practice of marriage, couple, and family counseling. Special
attention is given to an overview of foundational
systems-oriented theories (Bowenian, Strategic, Structural,
etc.), and the impact of issues such as gender, culture, and
ethnicity on the family system. Students will examine their
own assumptions about families and begin to develop
increased congruence between their assumptions,
philosophical/theological presuppositions, and the various
theoretical perspectives on family development, functioning,
interaction and intervention. (3 credit hrs)
COUN 580 Counseling Skills and Helping Relationships

COUN 580 Counseling Skills and Helping Relationships
introduces foundational helping skills essential to conducting
effective counseling. Students focus on developing clinical
mental health counseling skills, establishing rapport and
building therapeutic relationships while applying ethical and
legal standards of practice. Emphasis is on how the person of
the counselor impacts the therapeutic alliance with clients
along with what the counselor does in the session to help
facilitate client change. This course is taught from a
relationship-centered, strengths-based model utilizing
feedback. Students will participate in mock counseling
sessions with peers in order to practice and demonstrate
basic counseling skills and techniques. The course ends with
a 4 day residency to assess and deepen students counseling
skills. (3 credit hrs)
COUN 600 Developmental Psychopathology -- Risk and

Resilience
COUN 600 Developmental Psychopathology -- Risk and
Resilience introduces students to the concept of
developmental psychopathology along the continuum of
stress, distress, and disorder with focus on behavioral,
____________________________________________
experiential, and relational manifestations of mental health.
This course reinforces the comparative distinctions between
normative and psychopathological developmental pathways
from infancy through adolescence. The current edition of the
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
is introduced as a method for categorizing symptoms and for
classifying psychopathology as necessary for diagnosis,
conceptualization, and treatment of mental disorders. A
variety of perspectives on psychopathology are presented to
form an integrative and systemic context for diagnostic
considerations. Emphasis is placed on understanding
cultural, biological, social, and spiritual / religious domains,
along with the factors of risk and human resilience in the
development of psychiatric disorders. Students will be able to
develop an understanding of clients through this
comprehensive model of psychopathology. (3 credit hrs)
COUN 610 Group Counseling and Group Work

COUN 610 Group Counseling and Group Work introduces
students to a range of theoretical and experiential group
counseling structures and strategies involving group
development, group processes, and group dynamics in
clinical settings. An in-depth exploration is focused on group
formation including recruiting, screening and selecting group
members. A focus on group developmental theories, group
member roles and behaviors, leadership styles, types of
groups and professional standards for group leaders
prepares students for advanced work in group counseling
interventions. Students are required to engage in diverse,
culturally relevant direct group experiences defined within a
small group activity approved by the instructor of the course
within the School of Counseling guidelines, and to document
at least 10 clock hours of group work during this course. (3
credit hrs)
____________________________________________
COUN 620 Assessment and Testing across the Lifespan
COUN 620 Assessment and Testing across the Lifespan
reinforces student understanding of intellectual, academic
achievement, personality, and psychopathology tests and
other appraisal methods used in the counseling field for
individuals, couples and families. Focus will be given to
assessment of different dimensions of functioning-
behavioral, emotional, psychological, and personality among
children, adolescents, adults, couples, and family dynamics.
Students will develop advanced skills in the selection,
administration, and interpretation of assessment tools used
to evaluate client issues and functioning for individuals,
couples and families. (3 credit hrs)
COUN 630 Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

COUN 630 Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
reinforces assessment and diagnostic skills necessary for the
diagnoses of psychopathology with a focus on differential
diagnosis, case conceptualization, client-engaged treatment
planning, and clinical mental health intervention. Students
synthesize understanding and critical thinking skills required
to clinically assess, diagnose and treat atypical symptoms,
multiple diagnoses, and co-occurring criteria. Students will
conduct in-depth exploration of the legal and ethical use of
appropriate surveys, instruments and tests accepted in the
industry when rendering diagnoses aligned with current DSM
criteria. Students will demonstrate the knowledge and ability
to assess and develop working diagnoses and treatment plans
including for behaviors of potential harm to self and others.
(3 credit hrs)
COUN 640 Crisis & Trauma -- Prevention and Treatment

COUN 640 Crisis & Trauma -- Prevention and Treatment
introduces students to the foundations, contextual
____________________________________________
dimensions, and basic knowledge and skills to function in
specialized settings of agency, community and emergency
environments. Emphasis will be placed on providing
intervention in clinical, disaster, crisis, and traumatic
situations, including emergencies in which triage,
intervention, support, referral and advocacy are required.
Specialized areas will include counselor self-care; wellness
and prevention; suicide de-escalation, crisis incident stress
management, psychological first aid, other trauma informed
interventions and treatment, and emergency management
response teams. Attention is given to the role that spirituality
and religion play in helping or hindering persons in crisis.
Students will be able to utilize and assess intervention
strategies in crisis and trauma situations. (3 credit hrs)
COUN 650 Addictions Counseling

COUN 650 Addictions Counseling introduces students to an
overview of the challenges associated with substance abuse,
addiction and its widespread impact on individuals, families
and communities. This course is designed to address the
various dynamics, models, etiologies, dual diagnoses,
psychopathologies, and recovery strategies related to
addiction counseling. Emphasis will be place on drug and
alcohol addiction; however, other types of addictions will be
covered. Students will identify the empirically supported
assessment and treatment interventions shown to be
effective for individuals, families, groups, and diverse
populations, as well as be familiar with the emerging issues in
the field based upon current research to include exploration
of co-occurring and trauma-related disorders. (3 credit hrs)
COUN 660 Child and Adolescent Counseling

COUN 660 Child and Adolescent Counseling introduces
students to the basic principles of assessment and counseling
____________________________________________
children and adolescents within the context of
developmental, self-regulation, family, school, and diverse
socio-cultural and religious systems. The emphasis is on
students developing their own individual style in forming
therapeutic relationships with children and adolescents, and
selecting and using evidence-based therapeutic skills and
techniques, including therapeutic mediums such as toys,
audio/visual aids, games, cognitive treatment, and behavioral
programs. A special focus is given to parent training and
parents as co-therapists. Legal and ethical issues specific to
working with children are addressed. Students will acquire
introductory knowledge of different therapy models,
assessments for counseling, and skills related to working
with children and adolescents. (3 credit hrs)

introduces models and methods of intervention with couples
and families to develop effective professional skills for
working with couples and families. Techniques, assessments,
interventions, and strategies will be researched, discussed,
and practiced to develop preventive approaches as well as
approaches to facilitate optimal functioning in the midst of
various challenges in marriage, couple, and family life (e.g.,
step family issues, divorce/remarriage, extramarital affairs,
etc.). A special emphasis will be placed on families and
change, coping with stressful events and transitions in family
life. Students will acquire introductory knowledge of
relationship dynamics, assessment, and skills related to
working with couples and families. (3 credit hrs)
____________________________________________
COUN 690 Counseling Practicum/Advanced Clinical
Intervention Skills
COUN 690 Counseling Practicum/Advanced Clinical
Intervention Skills provides students with an initial
experience in delivering counseling services to diverse
individuals, couples, families, and groups. This experience
requires a minimum of 100 hours on site in a clinical
placement setting, 40 of which must be direct service,
face-to-face with clients conducting intake / assessments,
treatment planning, and interventions. Students will
participate in individual and group supervision in which they
will review their counseling sessions for discussion and
evaluation. Student performance is monitored throughout the
course and includes a formal evaluation at the middle and
end of the course. Students will be able to demonstrate the
necessary clinical and ethical competencies in the areas of
diagnostic interviewing and assessment, case
conceptualization, diverse / cultural contextualization, goal
setting, treatment planning, counseling intervention, and case
management. The course begins with a 4 day residency to
assess and deepen students understanding and practice of
the needed professionalism and clinical skills for a counseling
practicum. (3 credit hrs) (Pass/Fail)
COUN 691 & COUN 692 Counseling Internship 1 & 2

COUN 691 & COUN 692 Counseling Internship 1 & 2 provide
students with advanced experiences in delivering counseling
services to diverse individuals, couples, families, and groups.
This is a two semester experience that requires a minimum of
600 hours on site, 240 of which must be direct service,
differential diagnoses, treatment planning, and interventions.
Students will participate in individual and group supervision
in which they will review their counseling sessions for
____________________________________________
discussion and evaluation. Student performance is monitored
throughout the course and includes a formal evaluation at the
middle and end of each of the internship courses to assess
mastery of essential counseling techniques, evidence-based
practice, and advanced clinical skills. Students will be able to
demonstrate advanced clinical and ethical competencies in
the areas of diagnostic interviewing, case conceptualization,
diverse cultural contextualization, client-engaged goal
setting, treatment planning, counseling intervention, and case
management. (3 credit hrs per course) (Pass/Fail)
COUN 693 Advanced Counseling Internship 3

COUN 693 Advanced Counseling Internship 3 is designed for
students who for state licensure require a total of 1,000 clock hours
consisting of one (1) practicum of 100 hours (COUN 690
Counseling Practicum), one (1) internship of 600 hours (COUN 691
& COUN 692 Counseling Internship 1 & 2), and one (1) advanced
internship of 300 hours (COUN 693 Counseling Internship 3). This
course provide students with advanced experiences in delivering
counseling services to diverse individuals, couples, families, and
groups. This course continues the internship experience of COUN
691 & COUN 692 Counseling Internship 1 & 2 and requires a
minimum of 300 hours on site, with at least 100 hours of face to
face supervision, and 120 hours of which must be direct service,
differential diagnoses, treatment planning, and interventions.
Students will participate in individual and group supervision in
which they will review their counseling sessions for discussion and
evaluation. Student performance is monitored throughout the course
and includes a formal evaluation at the middle and end of each of
the internship courses to assess mastery of essential counseling
techniques, evidence-based practice, and advanced clinical skills.
____________________________________________
Students will be able to demonstrate advanced clinical and ethical
competencies in the areas of diagnostic interviewing, case
conceptualization, diverse cultural contextualization, client-engaged
goal setting, treatment planning, counseling intervention, and case
management. (3 credit hours) (Pass/Fail)
COUN 694 Supplemental Counseling Internship

COUN 694 Supplemental Counseling Internship is designed for
students who are currently seeing clients and have not completed
their required supervised internship hours and/or are currently not
enrolled in any regular internship course. This course provide
students with advanced experiences in delivering counseling
services to diverse individuals, couples, families, and groups. This
course continues the internship experience from COUN 692
Counseling Internship 2 or COUN 693 Advanced Counseling
Internship 3 that requires direct service, face-to-face with clients
conducting intake / assessments, differential diagnoses, treatment
planning, and interventions. Students will participate in individual
and group supervision in which they will review their counseling
sessions for discussion and evaluation. Student performance is
monitored throughout the course and includes a formal evaluation
at the middle and end of each of the internship courses to assess
mastery of essential counseling techniques, evidence-based
practice, and advanced clinical skills. Students will be able to
demonstrate advanced clinical and ethical competencies in the areas
of diagnostic interviewing, case conceptualization, diverse cultural
contextualization, client-engaged goal setting, treatment planning,
counseling intervention, and case management. This course may be
repeated as needed and is offered based on student need. Internship
site supervision and the classroom component are required until
internship hour requirements for COUN 692 Counseling Internship
____________________________________________
2 or COUN 693 Advanced Counseling Internship 3 are met and the
internship contract is fulfilled. (1-3 credit hours based on projected
need for student) (Pass/Fail)
COUN 710 Clinical Supervision and Consultation for

Community Mental Health
COUN 710 Clinical Supervision and Consultation for Community
Mental Health introduces clinical supervision and consultation
theories and practice within various health and human services
systems, including mental health hospital facilities, educational
institutions, community counseling agencies, and private practice.
Concepts, processes, and styles of clinical supervision and
consultation within public and private sectors are explored. This
course provides the knowledge and skills necessary to engage
within interdisciplinary treatment teams in consultation,
negotiation/mediation, and systems-level intervention in mental
health settings. Students will be introduced to theoretical and
practical approaches to administrative leadership in community
mental health agencies, including finance, budgeting, and cost
control. Students will acquire knowledge of the professional
developmental issues of both supervisors and their supervisees, and
methods that can be used to enhance competency and best practices
in professional counseling clinical supervision and consultation. (3
credit hrs)
COUN 720 Human Sexuality

COUN 720 Human Sexuality introduces students to the relationship
between mental health and human sexuality and the role of the
professional counselor. Students are introduced to a foundational
model of addressing sexual issues in counseling, sexual biology,
development, and dysfunction. Students will explore the
intersection of personal and professional values in counseling
____________________________________________
clients for sexuality related issues through an examination of social,
cultural, philosophical, and theological perspectives. Students will
utilize case conceptualization to demonstrate their understanding of
the physiological, psychological, social, and cultural variables of
human sexuality in diverse clinical situations and to evaluate and
assess possible counseling interventions and referrals. (3 credit hrs)
COUN 730 Psychopharmacology

COUN 730 Psychopharmacology introduces students to the
biological bases of behavior, basic classifications, indications, and
contraindications of commonly prescribed psychopharmacological
medications. Attention will be paid to the professional counselor's
role in the effective, multiculturally-competent, and ethical
approaches to psycho-active medications (e.g., referral,
consultation, monitoring, aftercare) when psychopharmacological
interventions are part of treatment. Students will demonstrate their
understanding of psychopharmacology by identifying clients in case
studies who should be referred for medical evaluation and ongoing
follow-up.
COUN 740 Advanced Seminar: Professional Orientation,

Law, and Ethical Standards of Professional Counseling
COUN 740 Advanced Seminar: Professional Orientation, Law, and
Ethical Standards of Professional Counseling provides advanced
training in professional orientation, law, and ethics in professional
practice, research, and counselor preparation. The American
Counseling Association (ACA) and the ACA Code of Ethics will be
the primary professional identity organization and the primary
professional conduct guide. Students will explore the legal and
ethical issues, responsibilities, and culturally relevant strategies in
clinical practice and supervision, counselor preparation,
professional credentialing, research, counselor education
____________________________________________
leadership, and counseling advocacy practices. Students will
develop an in-depth analysis of a specific legal or ethical issue
relevant to the jurisdiction of their future professional setting. (3
credit hrs)
PHT 513 Vocations and Virtues: The Flourishing Person

PHT 513 Vocations and Virtues: The Flourishing Person
introduces students to a Catholic-Christian integrative vision
of personal and interpersonal flourishing through vocations
and the virtues and its application to counseling. This course
explores how the vision of human flourishing that one adopts
is crucial for understanding and promoting human
development and addressing human problems. The course
addresses the theory and implications of: the human person’s
dignity in the light of being created in the image of God as
male and female; the effects of sin and redeeming grace; a
vocation and virtue approach; a personalist and natural law
approach; the person as a spiritual unity of body and soul
that is relational, emotional, rational, and free. Students will
learn how to take a holistic and transformative approach,
which integrates Biblical/theological, philosophical, and
bio-psycho-social-cultural perspectives into a global
understanding of the human person and flourishing. Students
will develop the mindset and competencies needed to
understand and assess the integrative potential of different
models of the person. (3 credit hrs)

introduces students to a Catholic-Christian vision of personal
and interpersonal flourishing in terms of vocations and
virtues, and human and spiritual resources. The importance
of a multidimensional model of vocation and virtue for
____________________________________________
everyday life and counseling will be explored. Students will
examine how Catholic-Christian practices can be sources of
relationship, support, growth, healing, and flourishing.
Students will develop skills for achieving personal growth
and freedom through building up their practical reasoning,
moral character, and spiritual life of faith, hope, and charity,
which have an impact on everyday life, mental health
counseling, and vocational commitments. Students will
reinforce their moral and spiritual formation, through
personal reflections, and a cohort community of spiritual
practice and interaction. (3 credit hrs)
PHT 533 Flourishing in Relationships

PHT 533 Flourishing in Relationships introduces students to
the nature and discernment of vocational states of being
single, married, ordained, or religious (consecrated).
Emphasis is placed on courtship and on marriage, which is
understood as a natural and divine institution that serves to
support and protect individuals, families, and society.
Students will examine the continuity and development of
Catholic-Christian teaching on marriage and family in a
historical, bio-psycho-social-cultural, philosophical, and
theological context. Students will analyze several issues that
are especially pertinent to clinical mental health counseling,
including not only disorders and difficulties related to
singleness, romance, marriage, and family life, but also
supporting strengths and practices. (3 credit hrs)
____________________________________________
Academic Policies
Academic Integrity (DMU)

The University is first and foremost an academic
community. Students and faculty together engage in the
discovery, analysis, application, development, and
transmission of knowledge as it pertains to psychological
and clinical mental health theory and practice. In order for
this honorable pursuit to progress successfully, a firm
commitment to academic integrity is required from all
members of the intellectual community.
Academic integrity entails a respect and reverence for

knowledge as a human good and for the whole academic
process, by which that knowledge is pursued and
transmitted. Specifically, it entails honesty in all one’s
academic dealings. Students at Divine Mercy University
therefore shall not engage in or tolerate acts of academic
dishonesty. These acts include, but are not limited to,
cheating, plagiarism, collusion, falsifying academic records,
and any act or attempt to commit an act designed to give
unfair academic advantage to the student (such as, but not
limited to, submission of essentially the same written
assignment for two courses without the prior permission
of the instructor, providing false or misleading information
in an effort to receive a postponement or an extension on a
test, quiz, or other assignment).
Students shall acknowledge in appropriate fashion the

contributions of others to their work where such
acknowledgment is due. The submission of work for
academic credit indicates that the work is the student’s
____________________________________________
own and that the work has been completed in accordance
with the standards of his or her course or assigned project.
At the beginning of each course, it is the responsibility of
the instructor to provide students with a statement
clarifying the application of the University academic
integrity policy to his or her course.
In cases where a violation of academic integrity has been

verified, the faculty member has the responsibility for
determining the academic consequences, which may
include assigning a failing grade for the assignment, exam,
or course, or non- acceptance of the thesis or dissertation.
Consequences can include probation from the University
for a designated period of time, and in extreme cases,
permanent dismissal from the University.
Students accused of a violation of academic integrity have

the right to appeal the accusation and/or the imposed
penalty. All such appeals are handled through the DMU
student grievance process.
Class Attendance (DMU)

For students in onsite programs:
All students, whether full-time, part-time or auditing, are

required to attend all scheduled classes. Full-time and
part-time students are required to complete all
examinations and other requirements. Penalties may be
imposed for a student who misses a class, unless the
absence is due to serious and extenuating circumstances,
and the student notifies the instructor in a timely manner.
Students who miss more than two classes for any cause in a
semester are automatically dropped from the class.
____________________________________________
Students may appeal for an exception to this policy with
the program director. The exception shall be jointly
granted by the instructor and the program director. If the
appeal is granted, the student may still be subject to
penalties and must develop a make-up plan acceptable to
the instructor.
For students in online programs:
The curriculum is delivered online using the Canvas®

learning management system. Students are expected to
attend the online classroom and actively participate in the
course. Penalties may be imposed for a student who
misses, fails to attend each week, or misses an assignment,
unless the absence is due to serious and extenuating
circumstances, and the student notifies the instructor in a
timely manner.
Students who are not active in the online course during any
week may be dropped from the class. Students may appeal
for an exception to this policy with the Program Director.
The exception shall be jointly granted by the Instructor and
the Program Director. If the appeal is granted, the student
may still be subject to penalties and must develop a
makeup plan acceptable to the Instructor.
For additional specifics regarding class attendance,

students should refer to their program handbook.
Class Cancellations/Emergency Closing

(DMU)
In the event of weather-related or other emergencies,
students will be informed in the most expedient manner
possible. When feasible, instructions will be provided to
____________________________________________
students via postings on bulletin-boards, in student
mailboxes, by text message, and/or through
announcements made in class. Updates will also be sent to
the student’s divinemercy.edu email. The University also
lists closings on www.wtop.com under “closings/delays.”
Every effort will be made to communicate the
announcement of class cancellations or an emergency
closing by 7:00 a.m. on each day impacted by such
emergencies.
For online programs, the online learning environment

allows flexibility and often is unaffected by weather-related
or other emergencies. In the event that online courses are
affected by such an event, online students will be informed
in the most expedient manner possible.
Papers and Publication Style (DMU)

The Publication Manual of the American Psychological
Association, 6th Edition (2009), should be utilized in all
course requirements for papers, comprehensive
examinations, dissertations, as well as other professional
writing. The student may access the Manual and
associated resources in the library or see the following
website for assistance: www.apastyle.org
Plagiarism (DMU)
Plagiarism is unethical and is considered academic
dishonesty. According to the American Psychological
Association (2016) plagiarism is described as follows:
Plagiarism is the act of presenting the words, ideas, or

images of another as your own. It violates ethical standards
____________________________________________
of accuracy, honesty, and truthfulness in scholarship.
Self-plagiarism is the act of presenting your own previously

published work as original. It misleads readers and falsely
inflates the number of publications on a topic.
Plagiarism occurs when writers fail to give proper credit to

their sources. Some kinds of plagiarism are deliberate—for
example, copying an entry—or a substantial part of
one—from Wikipedia and submitting it as your own work.
American Psychological Association. (2016). How to Avoid Plagiarism
and Self-Plagiarism [Video file]. Retrieved from
https://apastylecentral.apa.org/learn/browse/TUT-14
Some obvious examples of plagiarism include:
● copying someone else's paper.

● taking short or long quotations from a source without
identifying the source.
● turning in a paper you obtained over the Internet.
Some less-obvious examples include:
● changing a few words around from a book or article

and pretending those words are your own.
● rearranging the order of ideas in a list and making the
reader think you produced the
● list.
● borrowing ideas from a source and not giving proper
credit to the source.
● turning in a paper from another class. Whether this is
plagiarism or not depends on your instructor—ask
first!
● using information from an interview or an online chat
or email, etc., without properly citing the source of the
information.
____________________________________________
● using words that were quoted in one source, and acting
and citing the original source as though you wrote it
yourself.
Copyright policy (DMU)

It is the policy of Divine Mercy University that all faculty,
staff, students, and other members of the University
community adhere to all copyright laws concerning the
reproduction of materials and will be responsible for any
infringement(s).
The increased use of file sharing (peer-to-peer) software

has led to a significant increase in anti-piracy efforts and
legislation. Peer-to-peer programs allow sharing of
copyrighted music, movies, and software often without the
knowledge or consent of the user. Legislation including the
Digital Millennium Copyright Act in conjunction with
automated scanning software employed by software
publishers and music and movie production companies can
lead to a significant increase in copyright infringement
complaints received by the University.
The University accepts and processes notices received

under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act concerning
copyright infringement conducted on a peer to peer
network. The University reserves the right to terminate
network privileges for anyone who engages in such
copyright infringement.
Copyright is defined by the United States Copyright Office

as:
A form of protection provided by the laws of the United

States (title 17, U.S. Code) to the authors of “original
____________________________________________
works of authorship,” including literary, dramatic,
musical, artistic, and certain other intellectual
works. This protection is available to both published
and unpublished works. Section 106 of the 1976
Copyright Act generally gives the owner of
copyright the exclusive right to do and to authorize
others to do the following:
- To reproduce the work in copies or

phonorecords;
- To prepare derivative works based upon the
work;
- To distribute copies or phonorecords of the
work to the public by sale or other transfer of
ownership, or by rental, lease, or lending;
- To perform the work publicly, in the case of
literary, musical, dramatic, and choreographic
works, pantomimes, motion pictures and other
audiovisual works;
- To display the copyrighted work publicly, in the
case of literary, musical, dramatic, and
choreographic works, pantomimes, and
pictorial, graphic, or sculptural works, including
the individual images of a motion picture or
other audiovisual work; and in the case of
sound recordings, to perform the work publicly
1
by means of a digital audio transmission.
1 United States Copyright Office. (2004). Circular 1 Copyright Basics. Washington, D.C. [Available

online: http://www.copyright.gov/circs/circ1.html, p 1.
____________________________________________
The United States Copyright Office further states the
2
following:
One of the rights accorded to the owner of copyright is

the right to reproduce or to authorize others to
reproduce the work in copies or phonorecords.
This right is subject to certain limitations found in
sections 107 through 118 of the Copyright Act
(title 17, U. S. Code). One of the more important
limitations is the doctrine of “fair use.” Although
fair use was not mentioned in the previous
copyright law, the doctrine has developed
through a substantial number of court decisions
over the years. This doctrine has been codified in
section 107 of the copyright law.
Section 107 contains a list of the various purposes for

which the reproduction of a particular work may be
considered “fair,” such as criticism, comment, news
reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Section 107
also sets out four factors to be considered in determining
whether or not a particular use is fair:
1. the purpose and character of the use, including whether

such use is of commercial nature or is for nonprofit
educational purposes;
2. the nature of the copyrighted work;
3. amount and substantiality of the portion used in
relation to the copyrighted work as a whole; and
4. the effect of the use upon the potential market for or
value of the copyrighted work.

2 United States Copyright Office (2006), http://www.copyright.gov/fls/fl102.html
____________________________________________
The distinction between “fair use” and infringement may
be unclear and not easily defined. There is no specific
number of words, lines, or notes that may safely be taken
without permission. Acknowledging the source of the
copyrighted material does not substitute for obtaining
permission.
The 1961 Report of the Register of Copyrights on the

General Revision of the U.S. Copyright Law cites examples
of activities that courts have regarded as fair use:
“quotation of excerpts in a review or criticism for purposes
of illustration or comment; quotation of short passages in a
scholarly or technical work, for illustration or clarification
of the author's observations; use in a parody of some of the
content of the work parodied; summary of an address or
article, with brief quotations, in a news report;
reproduction by a library of a portion of a work to replace
part of a damaged copy; reproduction by a teacher or
student of a small part of a work to illustrate a lesson;
reproduction of a work in legislative or judicial
proceedings or reports; incidental and fortuitous
reproduction, in a newsreel or broadcast, of a work located
in the scene of an event being reported.”
Copyright protects the particular way an author has

expressed himself; it does not extend to any ideas, systems,
or factual information conveyed in the work.
The safest course is always to get permission from the

copyright owner before using copyrighted material. The
Copyright Office cannot give this permission.
When it is impracticable to obtain permission, use of

copyrighted material should be avoided unless the doctrine
of “fair use” would clearly apply to the situation. The
Copyright Office can neither determine if a certain use may
____________________________________________
be considered “fair” nor advise on possible copyright
violations. If there is any doubt, it is advisable to consult an
attorney. (FL-102, Revised July 2006)
Language Requirements (DMU)

American English is the official mode of communication in
classroom discussions, assignments, presentations, and all
academic discourse. Students must demonstrate command
of the English language, both spoken and written, sufficient
to pursue graduate studies in the United States throughout
their enrollment at DMU. Students may be required to
engage tutorial services beyond those offered by DMU, at
their own expense, to achieve the expected academic
language requirements. It is the responsibility of the
student to make any needed arrangements.
Final Examinations (DMU)

Final examinations are scheduled at the end of the term or
semester. In case of serious illness or emergency,
arrangements may be made with the instructor to take an
exam at another time. Postponement of a final
examination beyond the last day of the semester requires
the issuance of an “Incomplete” grade designation.
Course Evaluation by Students (DMU)

Near the end of each semester/term, students are expected
to complete an evaluation of each course. All evaluations
are confidential and shared in aggregate only. Student
honesty in evaluation of the courses is critical, since the
results contribute to improving class design, content and
____________________________________________
presentation. Instructors do not have access to the course
evaluation results until after final grades are submitted.
Grading Policy
The University’s official grading policy is as follows:
Grade Grade Point Value
A 4.0
A- 3.7
B+ 3.3
B 3.0
B- 2.7
C+ 2.3
C 2.0
C- 1.7
D+ 1.3
D 1.0
D- 0.3
F 0.0
INC (Incomplete) None
IP (In-Process) None
____________________________________________
W (Withdrawal) None
WP (Withdrawal-Passing) None
WF (Withdrawal-Failing) None
Passing Grade Requirement

For IPS programs (Psy.D., M.S. Psychology), any course in
which a student receives a grade of “C” or below must be
retaken. Additionally, in the Psy.D. program, specific
courses receiving a grade lower than a “B” may require
remediation and/or retake.
For Counseling programs, any course receiving a grade

lower than a “B” must be retaken. Students may repeat a
course 2 times (total of 3 attempts) before being placed on
scholastic suspension.
See the specific academic program policy section for any

additional criteria regarding minimum grades for
successful course completion. Depending upon these
requirements, students may be obliged to repeat and/or
remediate a specific course.
Retaking Courses
Students may repeat certain courses in order to improve
their cumulative grade point average. In such cases where a
course is retaken both grades will be reported on their
transcript, but the higher of the two will be used for the
purpose of calculating the grade point average.
Incomplete
____________________________________________
When a student has been assigned an Incomplete the
student must complete all outstanding course
requirements within three months following the end of the
semester or term of registration for the course. Failure to
complete all course requirements will result in the
instructor awarding a grade based upon work completed.
Students who receive financial aid and who carry a grade
of Incomplete into a subsequent semester risk loss of
financial aid for that semester. Carrying an Incomplete
course grade reduces the student’s overall grade point
average and lowers his/her credit hours
attempted-to-completed ratio – either or both factors can
create a failure to meet the financial aid requirements for
Satisfactory Academic Progress.
Grade Appeals (DMU)

All grades recorded become a permanent part of the
student’s academic history. A student who believes a final
grade has been miscalculated should ask the instructor to
review the matter. If a grade change is warranted, the
instructor should report this to the Registrar. If the
student is not satisfied with the instructor’s response, the
student may submit a written request to the Academic
Dean. The Dean or his/her designee will then meet with
the student and instructor, and will attempt to resolve the
dispute about the grade. Failing such a resolution, the
instructor’s grade will stand. No grade change will be
accepted after 30 days from the end of the semester unless
authorized by the Academic Dean. However, request for a
grade change that will affect eligibility for graduation or
academic honors or dismissal from the University must be
made prior to these events respectively.
____________________________________________
Academic Good Standing (DMU)
To remain in good academic standing, students must
maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of
3.0. A 3.0 grade point average is required to graduate. The
status of all students will be reviewed at the end of each
academic period by the Registrar, who will update student
status accordingly..
Academic progress is also reviewed by the appropriate
University Offices for compliance with the distinct
eligibility requirements for financial aid, veterans benefits,
and student visa status. See the respective sections for
additional information.
Academic Probation
In the event of failure to meet the above standard for
academic good standing, a student will be placed on
academic probation. The Registrar refers students on
Academic Probation to the Academic Dean and the
Program Director, to develop of a plan for remediation.
Academic Dismissal
Students placed on academic probation for two
consecutive semesters who fail to resolve the academic
deficiency may face academic dismissal.
Student Records (DMU)

Divine Mercy University maintains student records
necessary for the educational guidance and/or welfare of
students, for the orderly and efficient operation of the
University, and as required by law and in accordance with
____________________________________________
FERPA (The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20
U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99).
All information related to individual students is

confidential. Student records are the property of the
University but will be made available to appropriate
parties in accordance with state and federal law. The
University disseminates student information in accordance
with applicable state and federal laws and the University’s
own established policies and procedures.
University FERPA Policy (DMU)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
(20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that
protects the privacy of student education records. The law
applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable
program of the U.S. Department of Education. FERPA sets
forth requirements regarding the privacy of student
records. FERPA governs the release of records maintained
by educational institutions as well as access to those
records. FERPA rights are provided only to University
applicants upon actual acceptance to and subsequent
enrollment in classes at the University.
Introduction
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
affords post secondary students certain rights with respect
to their education records. These rights include:
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education

records within 45 days after Divine Mercy University
(University) receives a request for access. A student
should submit to the registrar, dean, program director,
____________________________________________
or other appropriate official, a written request that
identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect.
The school official will make arrangements for access
and notify the student of the time and place where the
records may be inspected. If the records are not
maintained by the school official to whom the request
was submitted, that official shall advise the student of
the correct official to whom the request should be
addressed.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s
education records that the student believes is
inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the
student’s privacy rights under FERPA. A student who
wishes to ask the University to amend a record, should
write the school official responsible for the record,
clearly identify the part of the record the student wants
changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the
University decides not to amend the record as
requested, the University will notify the student in
writing of the decision and the student’s right to a
hearing regarding the request for amendment.
Additional information regarding the hearing
procedures will be provided to the student when
notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to provide written consent before the
University discloses personally identifiable information
(PII) from the student’s education records, except to the
extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without
consent (see disclosures section below). Divine Mercy
University discloses education records without a
student’s prior written consent under the FERPA
exception for disclosure to school officials with
legitimate educational interests.
A school official is a person employed by the University
____________________________________________
in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research,
or support staff position (including law enforcement
unit personnel and health staff); a person serving on
the board of trustees; or a student serving on an official
committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance
committee. A school official also may include a
volunteer or contractor outside of the Institute for the
Psychological Sciences who performs an institutional
service or function for which the school would
otherwise use its own employees and who is under the
direct control of the school with respect to the use and
maintenance of PII from education records, such as an
attorney, auditor, or collection agent or a student
volunteering to assist another school official in
performing his or her tasks.
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the
official needs to review an education record in order to
fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for the
University.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of

Education concerning alleged failures by the University
to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name
and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of
Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC
20202
Directory Information
“Directory Information” is non-confidential information
about a student and may be released by the University
upon request, without written permission from the
student, unless notified otherwise in writing by the student
(except as required by State and Federal laws). Please note
____________________________________________
that the University values and protects the privacy of each
student’s information and is NOT in the practice of giving
our any personally identifiable information.
The University will disseminate “Directory Information”
(as defined below) in accordance with FERPA, applicable
State and Federal laws, and the University’s established
procedures (Policy 2040, Adopted by the Board of
Directors August 1, 2002).
In accordance with FERPA, the University has designated
the following non-confidential information about students
as public (“Directory”) information: Student name,
Address, E-mail address, Telephone number, Program of
study, Dates of attendance, and DMU/IPS degrees.
“Directory Information” is used to provide and support the
student's education. Students, however, have the right to
have this directory information withheld (within legal
limits). If the student does not authorize the release of the
directory information, the student should contact the
University Registrar to complete the applicable Form.
Disclosures that postsecondary institutions may make

without consent
FERPA permits the disclosure of PII from students’
education records, without consent of the student, if the
disclosure meets certain conditions found in §99.31 of the
FERPA regulations. Except for disclosures to school
officials, disclosures related to some judicial orders or
lawfully issued subpoenas, disclosures of directory
information, and disclosures to the student, §99.32 of
FERPA regulations requires the institution to record the
disclosure. Eligible students have a right to inspect and
review the record of disclosures. A post secondary
____________________________________________
institution may disclose PII from the education records
without obtaining prior written consent of the student –
● To other school officials, including faculty, within the
University whom the school has determined to have
legitimate educational interests. This includes
contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other parties to
whom the school has outsourced institutional services
or functions, provided that the conditions listed in
§99.31(a)(1)(i)(B)(1) – (a)(1)(i)(B)(2) are met.
(§99.31(a)(1)
● To officials of another school where the student seeks
or intends to enroll, or where the student is already
enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes related to the
student’s enrollment or transfer, subject to the
requirements of §99.34. (§99.31(a)(2))
● To authorized representatives of the U. S. Comptroller
General, the U. S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of
Education, or State and local educational authorities,
such as a State postsecondary authority that is
responsible for supervising the University’s
State-supported education programs. Disclosures
under this provision may be made, subject to the
requirements of §99.35, in connection with an audit or
evaluation of Federal- or State-supported education
programs, or for the enforcement of or compliance with
Federal legal requirements that relate to those
programs. These entities may make further disclosures
of PII to outside entities that are designated by them as
their authorized representatives to conduct any audit,
evaluation, or enforcement or compliance activity on
their behalf. (§§99.31(a)(3) and 99.35)
● In connection with financial aid for which the student
has applied or which the student has received, if the
____________________________________________
information is necessary to determine eligibility for the
aid, determine the amount of the aid, determine the
conditions of the aid, or enforce the terms and
conditions of the aid. (§99.31(a)(4))
● To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of,
the school, in order to: (a) develop, validate, or
administer predictive tests; (b) administer student aid
programs; or (c) improve instruction. (§99.31(a)(6))
● To accrediting organizations to carry out their
accrediting functions. ((§99.31(a)(7))
● To parents of an eligible student if the student is a
dependent for IRS tax purposes. (§99.31(a)(8))
● To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued
subpoena. (§99.31(a)(9))
● To appropriate officials in connection with a health or
safety emergency, subject to §99.36. (§99.31(a)(10))
● Information the school has designated as “directory
information” under §99.37. (§99.31(a)(11))
● To a victim of an alleged perpetrator of a crime of
violence or a non-forcible sex offense, subject to the
requirements of §99.39. The disclosure may only
include the final results of the disciplinary proceeding
with respect to that alleged crime or offense, regardless
of the finding. (§99.31(a)(13))
● To the general public, the final results of a disciplinary
proceeding, subject to the requirements of §99.39, if the
school determines the student is an alleged perpetrator
of a crime of violence or non-forcible sex offense and
the student has committed a violation of the school’s
rules or policies with respect to the allegation made
against him or her. (§99.31(a)(14))
____________________________________________
Privacy Protection for Students Enrolled in
Distance Education and Accessing DMU
Website (DMU)
Privacy Policy
Divine Mercy University (University) is committed to

protecting the privacy of individuals accessing our website.
This policy describes what information we collect and how
that information is protected and used.
In addition to this Privacy Policy, the Family Educational

Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the privacy of
student education records and affords post-secondary
students certain rights with respect to their education
records.
Policy Protection Procedures
What information do we collect?

We collect information from you when you register on our
site, request information about a program, subscribe to our
newsletter, respond to a survey or fill out a form.
When ordering or registering on our site, as appropriate,

you may be asked to enter your name, e-mail address,
mailing address, phone number or credit card information
(for distance education and continuing education courses).
You may, however, visit our site anonymously.
Google, as a third party vendor, uses cookies to serve ads

on your site. Google's use of the DART cookie enables it to
serve ads to your users based on their visit to your sites
and other sites on the Internet. Users may opt out of the
____________________________________________
use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and
content network privacy policy.
What do we use your information for?

Any of the information we collect from you may be used in
one of the following ways:
● To personalize your experience

○ (Your information helps us to better respond to your
individual needs.)
● To improve our website

○ (We continually strive to improve our website
offerings based on the information and feedback we
receive from you.)
● To improve customer service

○ (Your information helps us to more effectively
respond to your customer service requests and
support needs.)
● To process transactions
○ (Your information, whether public or private, will
not be sold, exchanged, transferred, or given to any
other company for any reason whatsoever, without
your consent, other than for the express purpose of
delivering the purchased product or service
requested)
● To send periodic emails

○ (The email address you provide may be used to send
you information, respond to inquiries, and/or other
requests or questions.)
How do we protect your information?

____________________________________________
We implement a variety of security measures to maintain
the safety of your personal information when you place an
order or enter, submit, or access your personal
information.
We offer the use of a secure server. All supplied

sensitive/credit information is transmitted via Secure
Socket Layer (SSL) technology and then encrypted into our
payment gateway providers database only to be accessible
by those authorized with special access rights to such
systems, and are required to keep the information
confidential.
After a transaction, your private information (credit cards,

social security numbers, financials, etc.) will not be stored
on our servers.
Do we use cookies?
Yes (Cookies are small files that a site or its service
provider transfers to your computer’s hard drive through
your Web browser (if you allow) that enables the sites or
service providers systems to recognize your browser and
capture and remember certain information
We use cookies to compile aggregate data about site traffic

and site interaction so that we can offer better site
experiences and tools in the future. We may contract with
third-party service providers to assist us in better
understanding our site visitors. These service providers
are not permitted to use the information collected on our
behalf except to help us conduct and improve our business.
Do we disclose any information to outside parties?

We do not sell, trade, or otherwise transfer to outside
parties your personally identifiable information. This does
____________________________________________
not include trusted third parties who assist us in operating
our website, conducting our business, or servicing you, so
long as those parties agree to keep this information
confidential. We may also release your information when
we believe release is appropriate to comply with the law,
enforce our site policies, or protect ours or others rights,
property, or safety. However, non-personally identifiable
visitor information may be provided to other parties for
marketing, advertising, or other uses.
Third party links

Occasionally, at our discretion, we may include or offer
third party products or services on our website. These
third party sites have separate and independent privacy
policies. We therefore have no responsibility or liability for
the content and activities of these linked sites. Nonetheless,
we seek to protect the integrity of our site and welcome
any feedback about these sites.
California Online Privacy Protection Act Compliance
Because we value your privacy we have taken the

necessary precautions to be in compliance with the
California Online Privacy Protection Act. We therefore will
not distribute your personal information to outside parties
without your consent.
Children’s’ Online Privacy Protection Act Compliance

We are in compliance with the requirements of COPPA
(Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act), we do not collect
any information from anyone under 13 years of age. Our
website, products and services are all directed to people
who are at least 13 years old or older.
Online Privacy Policy Only
____________________________________________
This online privacy policy applies only to information
collected through our website and not to information
collected offline.
Your Consent
By using our site, you consent to our online privacy policy.
Changes to our Privacy Policy

If we decide to change our privacy policy, we will post
those changes on this page.
Questions regarding our Privacy Policy

If you have questions concerning our privacy practices,
contact us:
Compliance
Divine Mercy University
2001 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 511
Arlington, VA 22202
Student Contact Information (DMU)

Student contact information is made available by the Office
of Student Services, which includes student names,
addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses.
A student who submitted a written request to the

University Registrar to withhold release of the directory
information (see FERPA) will not be included in the
Student Contact Information listing. If this student would
like to be included in the Student Contact Information
listing, the student must amend his or her Request to
Withhold Student Directory Information with the
University Registrar.
____________________________________________
Internet Use in the On-Campus Classroom
(DMU)
While the internet is a valuable source of information that can
facilitate the learning process, it is often a distraction to the
important interpersonal activity and learning opportunities
that occur in the classroom or residency setting. Therefore,
unless otherwise permitted in special cases by the instructor,
students in an on-campus classroom during an active class
session are not permitted to browse the internet.
Electronic Device Use Policy (DMU)

Cell phones, MP3 players, and other electronic devices shall
not be used in the classrooms (including residency) or in the
DMU library unless approved by an University official. Texting
or using a cell phone as a camera device is not permitted in the
classroom.
Utilizing a camera phone for the purposes of photographing

test questions or other forms of academic misconduct or illegal
activity is prohibited. Additionally, taking photographs of
others against their will is strictly prohibited.
The recording of conversations without consent of both

parties is prohibited. Lectures may not be recorded without
express consent of the instructor.
Student Freedom of Expression (DMU)

The free expression of student opinion is an important part
of education in a democratic society. Student’s verbal and
written expression of opinion at the University is to be
____________________________________________
encouraged so long as it does not substantially disrupt the
operation of the school. Students are, however, expressly
prohibited from the use of vulgar and/or offensive terms,
images, or behaviors.
Representing and Communicating about

DMU (DMU)
Students should refer media inquiries to the
Communications office, which can answer questions
accurately and speak officially for DMU. Students are not to
release information or grant interviews to the news media
without first checking with the Communications office or
being asked by that office to do so. In addition, students are
not to speak for the University on social media.
Distribution of Materials (DMU)

Publications or other material written by students may be
distributed on the University’s premises or on official
online classroom or resources in accordance with
procedures developed by the Academic Dean. Such
procedures may impose limits on the time, place, and
manner of distribution including prior authorization for
the distribution or circulation of printed material or the
posting of such material at the University, subject also to
building lease restrictions. Students responsible for the
distribution of material which leads to a substantial
disruption of the University, interferes with its operations
or contradicts the mission of the school, may be subject to
disciplinary action. Non-students or non-employees of the
University shall not distribute materials on the University
grounds.
____________________________________________
Student Publications (DMU)
Student publications produced as part of the University
curriculum or with the support of the student body are
intended to serve both as vehicles for instruction and
student communication. As such, they should reflect
respect for the Vision and the Mission of the University.
Official Communication (DMU)

A DMU student email (@divinemercy.edu) account is
provided for all enrolled students and acts as the official
email address for all university correspondence from DMU
offices. Students are responsible for all correspondence
sent to their official @divinemercy.edu student email
address.
Although faculty and students may communicate regarding

course material in Canvas®, the primary mode of
communication is through the official @divinemercy.edu
email accounts.
While official communication takes place through DMU

email accounts, students are responsible for monitoring
communications within their Canvas® account.
University Assigned Accounts (DMU)

The institution uses various systems including Email, Canvas,
Library, Tk20, etc. that require unique and secure login and
pass-code authentication. The institution controls the security
levels for faculty and students. Once access level is determined,
a secure login and password is generated for each student
____________________________________________
when admitted to the online program, and upon registration
for each course. The student is required to use this login and
password to access the these systems and interface
electronically with faculty and staff.
Student Grievance Process Policy (DMU)

Due Process for Student Grievances
It is the policy of the University to utilize due process in
handling student grievances. It is also the policy of the
University to utilize due process in disciplinary actions
taken against students.
In a Christian academic environment, every effort should

be made to sustain a relationship of charity and
cooperation between all members of the community.
Occasionally, however, a student may have a grievance
with a member of the faculty, staff, or fellow student/peer.
The student with the grievance should endeavor first to
meet with the other party to discuss the difficulty in an
attempt to resolve the issue. If the student does not feel at
ease approaching the individual, or is not satisfied with the
results of such a meeting, he or she should consult the Vice
President of Academic and Student Affairs who will
provide guidance as to what additional steps, if any, should
be taken. If resolution is not reached at this informal level,
the student may then wish to file a formal grievance. At
any point in the process described herein, the student filing
a grievance will always have the option to withdraw the
grievance. The University has established the following
Grievance Resolution Procedure for students to use for all
aspects of their experience with academic, student, and
other support services of the University.
____________________________________________
Confidentiality
In the grievance resolution process, every reasonable effort
will be made to protect the privacy of all parties. All
records pertaining to the investigation and to the
disposition of the grievance shall be maintained in sealed
files in conformity with state and federal privacy
requirements. Records of individuals involved or alleged
to be involved in a grievance will be made available to
officials of the University who have a need to know, and
otherwise only in accordance with applicable state and
federal laws and only to the extent required by law.
Resolution Procedures for Student Grievance with

Faculty Member or Student/Peer
Student grievances directed to a member(s) of the faculty
or student body (referred to herein as “the respondent”)
will be handled as follows:
1. Filing a Grievance: The complainant shall file a written

grievance with the Academic Dean. The complainant
shall record with specificity the circumstances of
his/her grievance.
2. Fact-Finding Committee: The Dean will appoint a
Fact-Finding Committee consisting of three faculty
members. A Chair of the committee will be designated
by the Academic Dean. If a conflict of interest or other
valid reason prevents a committee member from
serving, the Academic Dean shall select an alternate.
The Academic Dean shall make every effort to ensure
that a fair, impartial, and representative committee
hears the matter.
3. Notification: The Academic Dean shall give the
respondent written notification that a grievance has
____________________________________________
been filed, as well as a copy of the grievance. The
respondent may file a written response with the
Fact-Finding Committee Chair. The Academic Dean
shall provide a copy of the response to the complainant.
4. Investigation: The following standards for investigation
will be observed:
a. in conducting the investigation, the committee shall
receive and review the grievance, the response, and
other pertinent statements or documents;
b. the complainant and respondent shall be given the
opportunity to respond to one another’s statements,
and individually to present witnesses or concerned
parties in conformity to the evidence presented;
and,
c. the committee will interview witnesses and
concerned parties individually and in conformity
with privacy requirements, as it deems necessary.
5. Fact-Finding Report: When, in the judgment of the
Committee, the positions of the complainant and
respondent have been equitably heard, the Committee
shall submit a written Fact-Finding Report to the
Academic Dean. The Fact-Finding Report shall contain
the following:
a. a statement of the issues under review;
b. the positions of the parties;
c. a finding of the results of the investigation;
d. conclusion as to whether there is probable cause to
believe that the grievance is valid; and,
e. recommendations for action(s) to be taken.
____________________________________________
The total time period for the investigation, from the filing
of a written grievance to submission of the Fact-Finding
Report to the Academic Dean shall not exceed ninety (90)
calendar days.
The Chair of the Fact-Finding Committee will maintain all

records of the grievance, including its conclusions and
recommendations. These records shall be transferred to
the Office of the Academic Dean at the time of disposition
of the grievance. The records shall be maintained in
conformity with state and federal privacy and disclosure
requirements, policies and procedures.
Disposition of the Grievance and Disciplinary Action

The Academic Dean will make the decision about action to
be taken. The factual conclusions contained in the
Fact-Finding Report shall be binding upon the Academic
Dean for the purpose of this determination.
The Academic Dean will discuss the decision with the Chair
of the Fact-Finding Committee, prior to taking action, if the
action to be taken is different than that recommended by
the Committee.
The Academic Dean will immediately notify the

complainant and the respondent in writing of the
disposition of the grievance once the decision has been
made.
The decision of the Academic Dean will be made within ten

(10) working days of the receipt of the Fact-Finding
Report. The decision may be appealed in writing by either
the complainant or the respondent to the President of the
University; the appeal must be made no later than fifteen
____________________________________________
(15) working days from the date of the Academic Dean’s
notification of the decision.
If the complainant is a student and the student has not

received a satisfactory resolution after exhausting all
available grievance procedures established by the
institution, the student may contact the State Council of
Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) as a last resort in
the grievance process, using this link:
http://surveys.schev.edu/students/studentcomplaint.asp
Student Grievance Resolution Procedures Involving

Staff
The same procedures as described for student grievances
directed to faculty will be followed in the case of a student
grievance directed to a staff member, with the following
two exceptions:
a) the Vice President for Finance and Administration will

serve in place of the Academic Dean; and,
b) the Fact-Finding Committee will be appointed from

either staff or faculty of the University.
Retaliation Prohibited
DMU strictly prohibits retaliation against a member of the
University community who files a grievance, against whom
a grievance is filed, or who otherwise is a participant in the
grievance resolution procedure. Such retaliatory conduct
includes, but is not limited to, decreasing an employee’s
pay, reducing a student’s grade, or downgrading a person’s
performance evaluation.
____________________________________________
Academic Resources
Academic Advising and Mentoring (DMU)

The University strives to build an academic community
that supports personal and scholarly development.
Academic, personal, and scholarly advising and mentorship
by both faculty and staff occur at various levels within the
educational process at the University. Academic advising is
conducted by faculty members of the appropriate
academic programs. Mentorship is an ongoing process and
occurs through formal and informal interactions with
faculty, staff, and peers, who strive to provide a nurturing
and supportive educational experience.
Faculty Availability and Accessibility (DMU)

DMU is deeply concerned about each student’s individual
progress within its programs. Timely instructor input,
feedback, and guidance benefits the student’s decision
making and facilitates academic progress. To ensure
adequate availability and accessibility of instructors, DMU
requires faculty members offering an onsite course to hold
a minimum of two office hours per week for each course
taught, and faculty of an online course to respond to
student requests within 24 hours, during the workweek.
To ensure equitable and effective use of both the student
and instructor’s time, students are required to make an
appointment when they would like to utilize an instructor’s
office hours or availability. Instructors will inform the
students during the first class meeting of their office hours
or times of availability, changes to these hours, and the
____________________________________________
process he or she wishes to maintain in scheduling
appointments.
Disability Support Services (DMU)

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) the University is committed to providing reasonable
accommodation to any student who has a disability. Any
student who has a documented disability must provide
supporting documentation at the beginning of the first
semester to the Disability Support Services Office, located
in the Office of the Registrar (DSS@divinemercy.edu). Once
documentation is complete, the student must inform the
instructor in writing during the first week of class
regarding accommodations made for particular
class/classes.
The Mary S. Thelen Library (DMU)

The Mary S. Thelen Library (or the University Thelen
Library) is dedicated to supporting the study, learning,
teaching, research, and training needs of the University
students, faculty, and staff.
The mission of the Mary S. Thelen Library at Divine Mercy

University is to promote student success through the
development of DMU students, both intellectually and
professionally, and support the attainment and
enhancement of the highest quality educational, training,
and research environment of the DMU academic
community by:
● Educating students, faculty, and staff about the vast

array of information resources and services available,
____________________________________________
emphasizing the critical importance of information and
digital literacy skills for finding, evaluating, and using
information.
● Providing extensive academic, technological, and
scholarly resources as well as well-trained professional
staff (i.e., Jeff) that support and complement the
academic objectives of each DMU degree program, and
student and faculty research worldwide.
● Assisting in the documentation and dissemination of
Catholic Christian approaches to mental health.
● Preserving scholarly collections that support the three
pillars of integration of clinical psychology and mental
health theory and practice with a Catholic Christian
view of the human person.
The Library’s mission focuses on continually growing its
collections and resources to become an academic
research library for materials on or related to
integrating clinical psychology and Catholic/Christian
theology. The Library, named in memory of Mrs. Mary
S. Thelen, will grow to include more items, within its
seven major collections:
● Circulating Collection
● Reference Collection (print and electronic reference
materials)
● Reserves Collection
● Serials Collection (print and electronic journals)
● Psychological Test Collection
● Media Collection
● Archives & Special Collections
____________________________________________
In addition, the Library provides access to full text
electronic and online databases in the psychological, social
and behavioral sciences, theology, and philosophy;
computer workstations; audio/video equipment; and
independent learning resources. The University will
continually make significant expansion of these resources
and associated services in the upcoming academic years.
In addition to increasing the collections in the core area of

clinical psychology, each year using the ongoing three-year
Special Collections acquisitions cycle, there is a focus on
acquiring materials related to the ‘three pillars’ of the
University curriculum – Integration (of clinical psychology
and Catholic/Christian Theology), Theology and
Philosophy.
The University Thelen Library also enhances available

resources by facilitating access to the collections of other
libraries through cooperative agreements with the
libraries of two academic institutions in the Metropolitan
Washington area, and participation in various resource
sharing activities with other libraries through soliNet, the
Online Cooperative Library Center (OCLC) network, and
membership in the Virtual Library of Virginia/Virginia
Independent College & University Library Association
(VIVA/VICULA).
Additional information concerning Library resources and

other learning support services is available from the Mary
S. Thelen Library, on the University website, email:
Library@divinemercy.edu, or by calling the Library at
703-416-1441 ext. 121.
The Library is located on the first floor of the campus.

Electronic resources may be accessed on campus and
through remote access. The Library is available to students,
____________________________________________
faculty, staff, and alumni on campus during the posted
Library Hours
Regular Hours
Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Sunday Closed
Holidays, Summer, and Between Semester Hours
Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday Closed
The Library is closed on all days (including Holidays) the
University is closed.
Study Areas (DMU)

Designated study areas on the DMU campus are provided
so that students to have quiet space as well as group study
areas to support academic needs. These study spaces are
located in the Student Lounge and Library.
Computer Lab (DMU)

The computer lab is located on the first floor in the library
area. Students have access to the library materials, catalog,
email, testing software and other common programs.
Additionally, wireless is also available in all rooms.
____________________________________________
Computer Access Policy (DMU)
Access to the computer systems and networks that are
owned or operated by DMU imposes certain
responsibilities and obligations and is granted subject to
University policies. The use of these resources must be
consistent with the mission of DMU. By using the
technology provided, students agree to abide by these
policies. Any violation of these policies may result in
disciplinary action, including the termination of the
student’s network, email, and/or Internet access.
In making acceptable use of resources the student must:

● Access only information that is his own, that is publicly
available or to which he has been given authorized
access.
● Refrain from connecting to the Internet during class
time, unless authorized by the instructor.
Students must respect the rights of others to freedom from
harassment or intimidation through the sending of
unsolicited or anonymous messages or by repeatedly
sending unwanted email.
Unacceptable use includes but is not limited to:

● Use of another person’s user ID, email, files or data
without permission.
● Use of the Internet during class without consent of the
instructor
● Cyber-bullying.
____________________________________________
Canvas Learning Management System (DMU)
The university’s online learning management system is
Canvas®, an electronic venue in which students can
communicate with faculty and peers, gain access to online
support, find links to assistance with educational tasks
(such as writing, researching, and subject tutoring), and
access an online library with journals, articles and texts.
Students have access to the Canvas® classroom and online
library only while they are enrolled in a program.
The Blessed John Henry Cardinal Newman

Lecture Series (DMU)
The Blessed John Henry Cardinal Newman Lecture Series is
an annual program hosted by Divine Mercy University. The
Newman Lectures feature speakers who are widely
recognized for their contributions to the fields of
psychology, moral and political philosophy, theology, and
law. The University promotes this interdisciplinary
dialogue to advance the integration of the areas of modern,
social, psychological, clinical mental health, and Catholic
thought. Lectures are free to the public and students are
encouraged to participate. Lectures are recorded and
available on the University website.
____________________________________________
Financial Information
Financial Policies
Tuition and Fees, 2018-2019 (DMU)

Tuition Per Credit Hour
MS Clinical Psychology $1,021
Psy D (122 Course Credits) $1,033
MS in Psychology (Online) (36 Course
$751
Credits)
MS in Counseling (66 Course Credits) $817
50% program
Audit Tuition
tuition/credit hour
Fees for all Programs Per occurrence
Application Fee $55
Late Registration Fee $60
Add/Drop Fee per course $20
Add/Drop Fee per course $20
Graduation Fee $75
Returned check fee (each service) $35
Diploma replacement fee $50
Online Programs Only Per course
Technology Fee per Course $50
Residency Fee (COUN 510, COUN 580,
$1,500
COUN 690)
____________________________________________
Lab Fees per course: (COUN 540,
COUN 620); Lab Fees per external
$75
training module: (COUN 640- 3
Modules)
Expenses (DMU)
All expenses are payable in U.S. currency. The University
reserves the right to change rates and policies when
necessary.
Payment of Student Account (DMU)

The University requires students to satisfy their student
account at the time of registration, prior to attending
classes. The Financial Aid Office and the Business Office are
available to assist students in obtaining resources for
meeting these financial obligations.
Payment Plans (DMU)

The University offers payment plans as an option for
students who are unable to satisfy their student account at
the time of registration. Applications for payment plans
will be considered on an individual basis, through the
Business Office.
Refund Policy, Online Programs (DMU)

Students who withdraw from the Masters of Science in
Clinical Mental Health Counseling or the Masters of Science
in Psychology (online programs) following the University’s
withdrawal procedure, are allowed a commensurate return
____________________________________________
of tuition owed and refundable fees. Students will generally
not receive a removal of tuition, course fees, and other
associated fees until after the end of the published
Add/Drop period. The Institute’s refund schedule is the
following:
Withdrawal/Course Change Date % Refundable
Withdrawal up to Calendar Day 6 100%
Withdrawal after Calendar Day 17 0%
*Not valid for Maryland, North Dakota, or Tennessee

residents. Please contact the student accounts office at
businessoffice@divinemercy.edu for specific policies for
these states or consult the University’s website.
All monies owed the University at the time of withdrawal

become due and payable immediately. To obtain a refund
of tuition, students must also turn in all Institute property
in their possession, including their student identification
card, facility access keys, and all library materials. The date
used to calculate refunds will be the date on which a
student’s written request for withdrawal is made to the
Academic Dean, or the date on which the Registrar receives
written notice of a student’s intention to add or drop a
course.
____________________________________________
Delinquent Accounts (DMU)
A student with a delinquent account or debt will be denied
a transcript or diploma until all obligations are fulfilled.
The student is responsible for attorney fees and other costs
and charges necessary for the collection of any amount not
paid when due. If a previously enrolled student has a
delinquent account he/she will not be allowed to register
for the next semester until the account is settled and
cleared by the Business Office.
Financial Aid
MS Counseling 2018-2019 Estimated Cost of

Attendance
Direct Expenses: Tuition and Fees
Direct expenses represent the direct cost of a DMU degree.
This is the amount that it costs to attend classes. This is the
amount that is due to DMU. Beyond this amount there may
be incurred other personal expenses associated with
attending the program.
Direct Expenses
Program Expenses
for 2018-2019
Tuition ($817 per credit) $19,608
Technology Fee ($50 per class) $400
____________________________________________
Residency Fee (COUN 510, COUN
580, COUN 690 *includes double $1,500
occupancy lodging fee)
Lab Fees per course: (COUN 540,
COUN 620); Lab Fees per module: $75
(COUN 640- 3 Modules)
Subtotal $21,633
*New students should consider a $55 Application Fee for
their first year. Graduating students need to include a $75
Graduation Fee.
Indirect Expenses: Potential Associated Expenses

Indirect expenses are highly dependent on individual
circumstances. The costs that students pay to maintain
their internet connection can vary based on location. These
figures represent the loan eligibility for indirect expenses.
If there are extenuating circumstances that necessitate a
higher level of indirect expenses than this award it is
possible to consult the Financial Aid Office to see if loan
eligibility may be increased by the extenuating
circumstances.
Indirect
Program Expenses Expenses for
2018-2019
Books and Supplies $2,664
Room and Board $10,500
Transportation $5,520
Miscellaneous $9,216
____________________________________________
Loan Fees $3,000
Plus Loan Fees 7%
Total Indirect Expenses
$30,900
(without Plus Loan Fees)
M.S. in Counseling Estimated Total Cost of Attendance

2018-2019 Cost of
Expense Type
Attendance
Direct Expenses $22,025
Indirect Expenses $30,900
Total $52,925
Note that this is only an estimate of actual costs due to the

inclusion of indirect expenses which vary from person to
person. Also note that there is typically a 3% tuition
increase per credit every fall which is not included in these
figures.
Financial Aid Overview (DMU)

To make graduate education more affordable for its
students, the University has developed a financial aid
program to assist students in meeting the costs of
attending the University. The University is committed to
securing financial aid for students. Nevertheless, financial
aid is a student driven process and is ultimately the
student’s responsibility. The University encourages its
students to take primary responsibility for financing their
graduate education.
____________________________________________
Students enrolled as degree-seeking students are generally
eligible for federal, institutional, and/or private sources of
financial aid. DMU has a program participation agreement
with the United States Department of Education to
participate in the Title IV Federal Financial Aid Program
(Title IV) to offer student financial aid programs, including
the Federal Work-Study Program and the William D. Ford
Federal Direct Loan Program. DMU offers other types of
financial assistance available including self funding, private
grants and loans, limited fund institutional VA for qualified
veterans via the GI Bill.
Types of Aid (DMU)

The types of aid are generally federal, institutional, or
private.
Internal: Institutional Aid

Institutional aid is gift aid to students and does not need to
be repaid. Because every effort has been made to make the
academic programs affordable, Institutional Aid is limited
and based on merit and need.
● Scholarship Program:
https://divinemercy.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/
● Student Assistantships
External
● Veteran Affairs Benefits:
○ GI Bill Funding Eligibility: DMU programs are
approved for veteran benefits under the GI Bill. Go
to http://www.gibill.va.gov/ for more information.
____________________________________________
○ Yellow Ribbon G.I. Bill Education Enhancement
Program: IPS is approved for the Yellow Ribbon G.I.
Bill Education Enhancement Program, also known as
the Yellow Ribbon Program. The program agreement
permits the school and the U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs (Veterans Affairs) to provide
matching funds to apply toward the outstanding
amount of established charges not covered under the
Post-9/11 GI Bill.
● Americorp
● Tuition assistance/external scholarships and grants
Federal Financial Aid

If you are a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident, you might
be eligible to receive federal financial aid, which can help
you fund your higher education. The Divine Mercy
University (DMU) is certified by the U.S. Department of
Education to participate in a variety financial aid programs
available to U.S. citizens. Eligible students attending IPS
have access to federal student financial aid programs.
The University has a program participation agreement

with the United States Department of Education to
participate in the Title IV Federal Financial Aid Program
(Title IV), William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. As
part of this program, DMU offers Stafford unsubsidized
loans up to a maximum award of $20,500 for the academic
year. For information about Direct Loans, please go to the
following website: https://studentloans.gov.
Private Funding
Students are encouraged to obtain private sources of
grants and loans whenever possible. Many private
____________________________________________
organizations and foundations provide grant funds to
students. In addition, private educational loans are
available to students based upon creditworthiness.
Students are encouraged to visit the Financial Aid section
of the University website for more resources and
information.
Financial Aid Resources (DMU)

Students may choose to use any eligible lender that offers
private loans. The University does not maintain a list of
lenders that offer private loans, nor will it endorse a
particular lender. Students who need a focused resource to
assist in finding a private loan may choose to use the list of
private loan options developed by FinAid at
www.finaid.org/loans/privatestudentloans.phtml.
Related web links:
● https://studentloans.gov
● http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill
● https://www.youtube.com/user/FederalStudentAid
● 19- 50 of the list for Graduate Students
● https://www.fastweb.com
Applying for Financial Aid (DMU)

Planning early and researching all options are keys to
financing one’s education. The more applicants know
about how financial aid works, the better prepared they
are to fund their studies at Divine Mercy University. There
are other scholarship resources available on the website
____________________________________________
which list various organizations and foundations offering
funding to students pursuing graduate studies in
psychology and the mental health fields.
How to apply:
1. Submit the FAFSA: Students must demonstrate financial

need as calculated by federal methodology for all
need-based financial aid. This is done by completing the
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) located
at the website: http://www.fafsa.ed.gov.
DMU’s school code is G38724.
*Note: Submit the FAFSA as soon as possible after filing

your income tax.
2. Submit the University Application for Institutional Aid

form to the Office of Financial Aid via mail, email, or fax.
The forms can be downloaded from the University website
or obtained by emailing financialaid@divinemercy.edu.
For financial aid purposes, online student

full-time/part-time status will be determined by aggregate
of credit hours enrolled in the semester. For example, if a
student enrolls for the first time in the semester in the
third sub-term, the number of hours the student takes in
that sub-term will determine full-time/part-time status. A
part-time student who adds courses for subsequent
sub-terms of the same semester will still be considered
part-time for the entire semester.
Financial Aid Application Deadlines (DMU)

Awards are processed on a rolling basis. Students are
strongly encouraged to begin the application process at
____________________________________________
least 30 days prior to the start date of their program.
Financial Aid applications will be accepted within 30 days
prior to the start of the corresponding Program, but the
Office of Financial Aid cannot be held responsible if funds
are not available for disbursement for the term. Delays can
occur that are outside of the control of the Office of
Financial Aid. Students must maintain all federal aid
eligibility requirements for each term in which they are
enrolled.
Financial Aid for International Students

(DMU)
International Students applying for aid must fill out the
Financial Aid Application located in their application for
admission, as well as an International Student Aid
Application. See the International Student entry of the
catalog for more information.
International Students are required to maintain valid

immigration status.
Award letters (DMU)

Applicants will receive an official award letter. Upon
receipt of this letter students have an opportunity to
accept, modify or decline any part of the awarded aid.
fIn order to accept the awarded aid, students should follow

the steps and instructions noted in the letter, as well as
complete the required entrance counseling and the Master
Promissory Note (MPN) for the federal loan they are
interested in receiving. These requirements can be
completed online at www.studentloans.gov, where
____________________________________________
students can sign in using the FSA ID created in their
FAFSA application. Please note that a student is not
eligible to receive loans until these tasks are completed.
Student loans are certified at the beginning of each term.

Loans are disbursed directly to the school and are applied
to the institutional costs for the term (tuition, fee, etc.). If
there is money remaining after it has been applied to the
student account, after the loans are disbursed, a check will
be mailed for the difference of the funds requested minus
institutional costs.
Federal Loan Eligibility Policies (DMU)

1. Federal Loan Enrollment Requirements
A student must start class and be enrolled at least half-time
to receive aid from the Stafford and Grad Plus loan
programs.
Doctor in Clinical Psychology

For the fall and spring semesters, to be considered full-time
for purposes of obtaining federal loans, a student must be
enrolled in: a minimum of nine credit hours per semester;
or a minimum of six credit hours per semester and a
practicum/externship. To be considered half-time, a
student must take a minimum of six credit hours.
For the summer period of enrollment, to be considered

full-time for financial aid a student must take a minimum of
four credits. To be considered half-time for financial aid, a
student must take a minimum of two credits.
In addition any student enrolled actively working on a

dissertation (i.e., enrolled for dissertation credit hours) or
____________________________________________
engaged in a pre-doctoral internship is considered full-time
for federal aid purposes. Any student who meets the
conditions of the Continuous Enrollment Fee is considered
half-time from the perspective of financial aid.
Masters in Counseling
For fall and spring semesters, a student must be enrolled
for a minimum of nine credits to be considered full-time. A
minimum of six credits is required for half-time enrolment.
For summer, enrollment a student must be enrolled for a

minimum of six credits to be full-time and a minimum of
three credits are needed for a student to be half-time.
Students starting in the summer semester and students
who have received approval from their academic advisor
will be considered full-time with a minimum of three
credits in summer.
Masters in Psychology
In the Masters of Psychology Program a student must be
enrolled for a minimum of six credits to be considered
full-time and a minimum of three credits are required to be
half-time in fall and spring semesters. In the summer
semester, students are considered full-time when enrolled
for a minimum of three credits.
2. Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)
Requirements for SAP

All students must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress
(SAP) requirements to receive federally sponsored
financial aid at the Institute. SAP for financial aid recipients
____________________________________________
is a policy distinct from the University’s Academic Standing
policy.
The University’s SAP includes both qualitative and

quantitative components in compliance with federal
regulations, and is assessed at the end of each period of
enrollment. Students must maintain a cumulative Grade
Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher and must earn at least
50 percent of their attempted credit hours each semester.
They must also complete the coursework for their specific

program of study within the maximum time frame
designated in the academic catalog degree requirements
sections. Students who do not comply with these standards
become ineligible for federal financial aid.
Review of SAP
SAP is evaluated at the end of each period of enrollment. If
a student is found not to meet SAP requirements after this
evaluation, they will receive a letter from the Financial Aid
Office informing them that they have been placed on
financial aid probation. A student with this status may
receive financial aid for the next enrollment period, but
must meet SAP requirements by the end of that period.
Appeal Process for SAP

If the student fails to meet SAP the second time, after the
financial aid warning period, they will lose their financial
aid for the next period of enrollment. If there are
extenuating circumstances involved, students who fall
below the SAP requirements for the second time may
submit a written appeal to the Financial Aid Office within
30 days of their ineligibility notification.
____________________________________________
The appeal letter should include the reason why the
student failed to make SAP and what has changed that will
allow the student to make SAP at the next evaluation.
Reasons for appeal may include extenuating circumstances
such as prolonged illness, hospitalization, death of an
immediate family member, etc.
The Financial Aid Office will review the appeal and notify
the student in writing of the outcome of their appeal. If the
appeal is granted, the student is returned to financial aid
probation, and their aid may be continued for one period of
enrollment. If the student has not met the SAP
requirements by the end of the probation period, he/she is
no longer eligible for federally-sponsored financial aid.
Withdrawal or Incomplete and SAP

Withdrawal from a course and/or an Incomplete in a
course will not be considered satisfactorily completed for
SAP purposes. Each of these types of courses will be
considered courses attempted but not completed.
Students who receive financial aid and who carry a grade

of Incomplete into a following semester risk loss of
financial aid for that semester. Carrying an Incomplete
grade reduces the student’s overall (GPA) and lowers
his/her credit hours’ attempted-to-completed ratio, either
or both of which factors can create a failure to meet the
requirements for SAP.
Restoration of Federal Aid with SAP

Restoration of federally-sponsored financial aid becomes
possible when the student achieves SAP requirements,
based on official end-of-semester grade reports.
____________________________________________
3. Courses Repeated
Courses repeated may receive federal aid provided that the
student failed to complete the course (either by receiving a
failing grade or by withdrawing prior to the end of class). A
student may receive federal aid once for each course
passed if it is retaken in an attempt to improve the grade
achieved. Students may not receive federal loans for
courses already taken if the grade achieved was the highest
possible grade in the course (i.e. “4.0” out of a four point
grading scale or “Pass” in a pass/fail course).
Repeated courses count towards Satisfactory Academic

Progress (SAP).
4. Transfer Courses
Transfer courses, both those a student completed prior to
admission to DMU and those accepted while a student is
enrolled at DMU, are not factored in when calculating a
student’s DMU financial aid eligibility. Both types of
transfer courses may count towards SAP as credit hours
attempted and completed if the student has completed the
transfer of credit process (outlined in the Academic
Catalog’s Criteria for Transfer of Credit section).
5. Financial Aid Academic Year

DMU uses the Borrower-Based Academic Year (BBAY) for
financial aid. The BBAY at DMU consists of two consecutive
trimesters and its progression follows the student’s
progress through the program. A student’s annual limit for
Direct Unsubsidized loans is in effect for the period of each
BBAY. Graduate Plus loans do not have annual limits but
____________________________________________
are awarded for the same BBAY as the Direct Unsubsidized
loans.
6. Verification
FAFSA’s are marked during processing as needing to be
verified and reviewed for information that is potentially
erroneous. The Financial Aid office will notify each student
who has been selected for verification, and the student will
have 10 days from the time they receive notification to
bring in supporting documents that attest to the accuracy
of the information on their FAFSA. Once verification is
completed, the FAFSA will be corrected, and the student’s
eligibility to receive need-based aid will be assessed.
7. Return of Title IV Funds

Students receiving Title IV federal financial aid who
withdraw are subject to a return of federal funds
calculation as required by federal law (R2T4). This
calculation determines the amount, if any, of the Title IV
funds to be returned to the Title IV program(s) utilized by
the student for the enrolment period that the student
withdrew from. The calculation will be performed within
thirty days of determining that a student has withdrawn.
Please note that this policy is distinct from the University’s
refund policy, described in its catalog.
This calculation determines the amount of financial aid the

student earned based upon the dates of enrollment, the
percentage of the enrollment period completed, and the
amount of the Title IV aid disbursed. Official withdrawal
information is determined by the Office of the Registrar.
Unearned Title IV federal financial aid disbursed on behalf
____________________________________________
of the student must be returned to the appropriate Title IV
program.
When a return of funds is determined necessary, the

University will return the portion of unearned Title IV aid
in its possession to the Department of Education (DOE)
within thirty days. It will also request that student return
any unearned aid in their possession. If the student does
not return unearned funds in their possession within thirty
days, the University is required by federal law to report
this failure to the DOE. The DOE will pursue collection of
any unearned Title IV funds. If a student fails to return
unearned fund they will become ineligible for further Title
IV aid until they reach a resolution with the DOE.
Since the recalculation is distinct from the University’s

refund policy, it is possible for there to be a discrepancy
between the amount of funds earned and the tuition
required by the University. In the case of a discrepancy, the
University will address it in one of two ways. If the student
has earned funds in excess of tuition owed, the University
will send these funds to the student. If a tuition deficit is
incurred by the return of unearned funds to the DOE, then
the University shall bill the student for the remaining
balance that they owe.
In cases of student withdrawal, the University will adhere

to the processes as outlined by CFR 668.22 and will return
funds in the order found therein.
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
Student Support Services and
Policies
Student Support Services (DMU)

Consistent with its mission, the University provides a
variety of student support programs, services, and
activities that promote student learning and enhance the
development of its students. The Office of Student Services
seeks to assist students with social, spiritual, and other
support services.
The University strives to provide timely and accurate

information to students regarding matters of interest, such
as academic events, employment opportunities, lectures,
social and spiritual activities. Notification of these events
and activities is provided to students via e-mail, through
the Student Leadership Committee, on student bulletin
boards, in student mailboxes, in postings on the website,
other online notification means, and through contact with
the Office of Student Services.
The Office of Student Services also provides information

about many services of interest which are available for
students in the campus area. These services include
banking, local hospitals and clinics, hotels, parishes,
student health services and insurance, places of interest,
student-discounted tickets, and transportation.
____________________________________________
Student Leadership Committee (DMU)
The Student Leadership Committee (SLC) is the recognized
student leadership and student governance body of the
University and works closely with the Office of Student
Services. SLC plans social and spiritual activities for
students and serves as the formal channel of
communication between the student body and the
University’s administration. The SLC is made up of eight
current members of the University student body. There are
two types of members: officers and representatives. The
four officer positions are: president, vice president,
secretary, and treasurer. Of the four representatives, two
facilitate the social life of the University student body, one
is a member of the Library Committee, and one serves to
promote the spiritual aspects of the University mission.
Members and officers of the SLC are elected by the student
body in the spring semester and serve one-year terms.
Chaplaincy / Campus Ministry (DMU)

Based on the mission and vision of the University, the
Offices of Chaplaincy and Campus Ministry facilitate
numerous opportunities for the University students to
grow in their faith formation. Included among these
opportunities are daily Mass, weekly Eucharistic
Adoration, occasional retreats, evenings of reflection,
online prayer requests and spiritual retreats. These
activities provide the students, staff, and faculty of the
University with a valuable experience of shared worship. A
schedule of dates and times for all activities is posted on
the Office of Student Services Bulletin Board on a regular
basis. The chapel is located on the first floor of the
University. There is also an online Chapel available to
____________________________________________
students through Canvas® which allows them to partake of
the spiritual life of the University from a distance.
In addition, spiritual direction and the sacrament of

reconciliation with the Chaplain of the University are
available to students, faculty, and staff. Individual
appointments may be scheduled by contacting the
Coordinator of Student Services. Other religious activities
and programs for students held during the year include a
Student Retreat at the beginning of the year, Advent and
Lenten Evenings of Reflection, and a Pilgrimage with the
President.
Student Code of Conduct (DMU)

At the core of the standard of conduct of Divine Mercy
University is the teaching of the Catholic Church regarding
the transcendent dignity of every human person, created
“in the image of God” (Gn 1:27). This dignity calls the
members of the DMU community to respond to each other
above all with charity, seeking always the true good of the
other person (CCC 1822-29). Created by God, who is Truth
Himself (Jn 14:6), the human person is called furthermore
“to live the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15;). As an academic
community rooted in the life of the Church, the members of
the University community are to pursue and defend the
truth in all their endeavors. Finally, made in God’s image,
the human person is recognized as a free and responsible
being (CCC 1738). Within the boundaries of civil law,
institutional policies of DMU, and Catholic moral and
religious teaching (CCC 1691-2557), this freedom for
excellence is to be respected and encouraged by all
members of the DMU community. DMU core values include:
____________________________________________
faith, hope, charity, truth and goodness, scholarship and
academic excellence, service and compassion, integrity and
honesty, justice and responsible freedom, forgiveness and
Reconciliation. Following from the general principles
outlined above, a series of more specific standards may be
stated to communicate more fully the expectations
regarding moral life at Divine Mercy University. The listing
of these standards is illustrative rather than exhaustive:
● charitable respect and tolerance for diverse

backgrounds, traditions, personalities, and beliefs of
students, faculty, staff, and clients;
● mutual service to others in the common search for
truth;
● personal responsibility to participate in the life of the
University, seek truth and wisdom, and develop right
practical judgment;
● development of reverence for God and his creation;
● commitment to develop personal, moral, and spiritual
character through academic efforts and personal
reflection;
● dedication to accept responsibility for moral decisions
and actions in terms of rewards and consequences;
● respect for the property of DMU and personal property
of others on site at DMU;
● concern for preserving the peace and ensuring orderly
procedures;
● shared responsibility for maintaining an appropriate
academic and moral climate on campus;
● respect for others and oneself displayed by appropriate
conduct.
____________________________________________
Proper Attire Policy (DMU)
Students should dress in a way that reflects their status as
aspiring professionals and the respect due to oneself and
others in a Christian institution. The University reserves
the right to counsel students on the appropriateness of
attire if a complaint is received from faculty, staff, student,
or site supervisor.
Students should consult their program handbooks and

course catalogs for attire policy specific to their program.
Drug & Alcohol Use (DMU)

Divine Mercy University prohibits the unlawful possession,
use, or distribution of illegal drugs by students and
employees on its property or as part of any of its activities.
Penalties: Penalties for violating the University’s policy

may include expulsion from the school and referral for
prosecution. Federal and state law also penalize the
unlawful manufacturing, possession, use, and distribution
of illicit substances. The penalties vary based on many
factors, including the type and amount of the drug
involved, and whether there is intent to distribute. Federal
law holds that any person who distributes, possesses with
the intent to distribute, or manufactures a controlled
substance on or within one thousand feet of an educational
facility is subject to doubling of the applicable maximum
punishments and fines.
Health and Behavioral Risks: The negative physical and

mental effects of the use of alcohol and other drugs are well
documented. Use of these drugs may cause: blackouts,
____________________________________________
poisoning and overdose; physical and psychological
dependence; damage to vital organs such as the brain,
heart and liver; inability to learn and remember
information; and psychological problems including
depression, psychosis, and severe anxiety. Impaired
judgment and coordination resulting from the use of
alcohol and other drugs are associated with a variety of
crimes. Individuals concerned about their own health or
that of a friend should consult a physician or mental health
professional.
Treatment: Should it be necessary, the University will refer

the student or employee to an appropriate rehabilitation
program or drug counselor.
Smoking Policy (DMU)

In keeping with DMU Building Rules and Regulations: “In
consideration of the health, welfare and the morale of our
tenants, the Building is smoke free. This includes any
connecting arcades, concourses, shopping centers and
walkways. [...] Smoking is not allowed within twenty-five
(25) feet of building and retail entrances or in garages. [...]
"Smoking," as used in this policy, means the use of any
tobacco-based or smoke-producing or vapor-producing
item, including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes,
cigars, pipes, bidis, kreteks and similar products.”
Accordingly, smoking is not allowed within twenty-five
(25) feet of Divine Mercy University.
Pet Policy (DMU)

DMU Building Rules and Regulations state: “Tenant shall
not bring or keep within the Building any animal,
____________________________________________
motorcycle, or type of vehicle, except as required by law”.
Accordingly, only service animals are allowed at Divine
Mercy University.
Parking (DMU)
A limited amount of underground parking spaces are
available to students who are engaged in full time
coursework. Parking passes are issued in one year terms,
with fees scheduled for each of the fall, spring, and summer
semesters. A request for parking form, available from the
Business Office, must be completed and returned along
with a parking deposit. The parking deposit will not be
returned in the case of lost or damaged cards.
Passes are renewable each year that the student is engaged

in full time coursework, onsite, at DMU. Students on site
part time or occasionally may not qualify for a full time
parking pass.
Public parking can be found at metered spaces along S.

Clark Street or in underground areas designated as public
parking. A number of underground lots are free and open
to the public after 4PM and on weekends. Parking in
permit-only spaces without a permit may result in the
vehicle being towed at the owner’s expense.
Student Housing (DMU)

As a commuter campus, with a large online population, the
University does not offer on-site housing. Although
students are responsible for securing housing for
themselves while enrolled at the University, the Office of
Student Services is able to direct students to resources that
____________________________________________
may assist them in finding housing. Potential housing
resources are listed on the University website and are
available from the Office of Student Life.
Career Services (DMU)

DMU is dedicated to assisting students completing
academic programs with finding and securing positions in
clinical psychology, counseling and related human service
fields. Career placement is individualized for each student
and is facilitated by faculty academic advisors. Each
student is encouraged to take advantage of all resources
and work through their faculty academic advisor for any
job or graduate placement assistance needed.
Career placement services are also provided through
DMU-sponsored workshops to help students build resume
and job interviewing skills as well as through providing
initial contact with potential employers. Current job
openings, employment opportunities and other specialized
opportunities in the field of clinical psychology, counseling
and related human services are available through various
means including but not limited to the following; on the
bulletin board located in the student lounge, through the
student’s DMU email, and through the official DMU
Community Facebook group..
If students find themselves in a situation where they
require additional resources and support in developing
their professional path, they may also seek individualized
one-on-one career consultation by reaching out to career
services via Student Services and also through their
Academic Advisor.
____________________________________________
Counseling Services (DMU)
Occasionally students may wish to seek individual
counseling. Students who experience personal difficulties
as a motive for seeking counseling should explore the
availability of services within respective communities. If
you feel you are in danger, are a danger to yourself through
self-harm, experiencing a mental health emergency, or are
otherwise having a medical emergency, DIAL 911
immediately.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1 (800) 273-8255
National Human Trafficking Resource Center: 1 (888)
373-7888
Therapists Online Now: www.betterhelp.com
Students can consult the Office of Student Services for a list
of local counseling service referrals.
*Note: Faculty Advisors, or other DMU administration, staff
or faculty may NOT provide psychotherapy or professional
counseling for students as part of their role at DMU. A
counseling or therapeutic process and agreement with a
student would constitute a dual role relationship.
International Students Support (DMU)

Divine Mercy University participates in the Student
Exchange and Visitor Program, hosting International
Students who represent various countries from all over the
world. DMU International Students provide insight and
diversity to our university community, and their
participation has and continues to enrich our programs.
____________________________________________
International Students may contact the International
Student Coordinator and Office of Student Life for
applicable student support services.
Student Insurance (DMU)

Students seeking insurance policies can consult the Student
Handbook or the Office of Student Life for a list of
companies providing insurance for students. International
students are required to obtain insurance once they are in
the United States. Students enrolled in a clinical program
(Psy.D., M.S. Counseling) are required to obtain
professional liability insurance prior to beginning their
practicum/internship experiences.
Safety and Emergency Procedures (DMU)

The Safety and Emergency Procedures Manual is for
students, faculty, and staff members at DMU. It provides
reference information to assist the university community
with various safety guidelines. It can be found printed
around campus and via the student resources in Canvas®.
Students should become familiar with the manual contents,
including the documents and plans referenced throughout.
Emergency Treatment (DMU)

The University recognizes that it is responsible for
assisting students in obtaining reasonable first aid when
they are on campus or onsite, including medical treatment
in case of emergency, sudden illness or injury while on
campus. A list of area hospitals and clinics can be obtained
from the Office of Student Services. It is the responsibility
____________________________________________
of the student to follow through with additional medical
attention that may be required following this emergency
treatment.
Social Activities (DMU)

To facilitate community life, the University regularly
sponsors social gatherings of students, faculty, staff, and
their families. The Student Leadership Committee
coordinates many of these functions, and student
attendance is encouraged. Students enrolled in online
programs are welcome to attend any time they are in the
area. Details are circulated by the Office of Student Services
and may be posted on any of the following: student bulletin
boards, sent via e-mail, distributed to students’ mailboxes,
and posted on the University website. In support of the
student life programs and services, a student activity fee is
paid by each student enrolled.
University Administration and Staff

President Rev. Charles Sikorsky, L.C., J.D.,
J.C.L.
VP for Finance & Administration Antonio Maza, M.B.A.
VP for Enrollment & Marketing Thomas Brooks
VP for Academic and Student Laura Tucker, M.P.A.

Support Services
Associate VP, Program Stephen Grundman, Ph.D.

Development
Dean, IPS (School of Psychology); Suzanne Hollman, Psy.D.

Director, PsyD Program
____________________________________________
Dean, School of Counseling, Harvey Payne, Psy.D.
Director, MS Counseling
Co-Director, MS Counseling John West, Ph.D.
Dean of Students Jennifer Karns, M.A.
Associate Dean of Students Tambi Spitz-Kilhefner
Director, Department of Craig Steven Titus, S.T.D., Ph.D.

Integrative Studies
Director, MSP Program Kathleen Dudemaine, Ph.D.
Director of Library Services, Jeffrey Elliott, M.S.L.S.

Online Student Support Services
Registrar Katie Rosaschi
Director of Accounting, Student Mabel Imala, M.B.A, CPA

Accounts Manager
Director of Marketing Andrea Cassar
Director of Financial Aid Toni Wormley, M.A.
Director, IPS Center for Ana Buenaventura, Psy.D.

Psychological Services, IPS
Clinical Training
Assistant IPS Clinical Training Antony Bond, Psy.D.

Director
Associate Director, PsyD Program Lisa Klewicki, Psy.D.
Co-Director, SOC Training & Benjamin Keyes, Ph.D.

Internships
Co-Director, SOC Training & Stephen Sharp, Ph.D.

Internships
____________________________________________
Senior Director of Jessie Tappel, M.S.
Communications
Assistant to the President Rev. Edward Moran, M.S.
Assistant Director, IPS Center Cynthia Killough, Ph.D.
Operations Manager, IPS Center Jacob Mason
Chaplain Rev. Steven Costello, L.C., Ph.D.

(ABD)
Assistant to the VP for Finance & Keegan McDermott

Administration
Coordinator of Financial Aid Brittany Wills
Financial Aid Assistant Sandy Jackson
Academic Assistant for the School Laura Mayers, M.A.

of Counseling
Academic Assistant for IPS Becci Sheptock, B.A.
Institutional Effectiveness Patricia Camarero, Ph.D.

Assistant
Marketing Administrative Jeffrey Balzarini

Assistant
Marketing Administrative Eric Kambach

Assistant
Marketing Outreach Assistant Katelyn Moroney
Marketing Associate Ebony Shamberger
Media Production Matthew Johansen
Online Program Development Victoria Rath
____________________________________________
Student Help Desk Coordinator, Anne Adams
Assistant to the Librarian
Admissions Associate Michele Drennen
Admissions Associate Robert Cappel
Admissions Associate Julie Cipriano
Admissions Associate Steven Showalter
Admissions Associate Molly Loesel
____________________________________________
Faculty
Full time Faculty
Gabriel Dy-Liacco, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Ph.D. Loyola
University (Pastoral Counseling), M.S. Loyola University,
A.B. Ateneo de Manila University.
gdy-liacco@divinemercy.edu
Benjamin Keyes, Ph.D, Ed.D.. Director of Training and

Internships – Eastern States, Professor, Ph.D. International
College (Rehabilitative Counseling), Ed.D. University of
Sarasota (Counseling Psychology) M.A. University of South
Florida, B.A. University of South Florida.
bkeyes@divinemercy.edu
Matthew McWhorter, Assistant Professor; Ph.D. Ave Maria

University (Theology/Religious Studies), M.A. Georgia State
University, B.A. University of Georgia.
mmcwhorter@divinemercy.edu
Harvey Payne, Psy.D., Dean, School of Counseling,

Co-director of the CMHC Program, Associate Professor,
Psy.D. William James College (formerly Massachusetts
School of Professional Psychology) (Clinical Psychology),
M.A. Denver Seminary, B.S. Lancaster College.
hpayne@divinemercy.edu
Stephen Sharp, Ph.D., Director of Training and Internships

– Western States, Associate Professor, PhD, Capella
University (Human Services; Professional Counseling
Specialization), M.S. Capella University, B.S. Utah State
University, ssharp@divinemercy.edu
____________________________________________
Fredericka Vyvlecka, Ph.D. Assistant Professor; Ph.D. Texas
A&M-Corpus Christi (Counselor Education), M.S. Our Lady
of the Lake University, M.A. Saint Mary’s University, B.A.
Saint Mary’s University. fvyvlecka@divinemercy.edu
John West, Ph.D., Co-director of the CMHC Program,

Associate Professor, Ph.D. University of Colorado
(Educational Leadership, Research, and Policy), M.S.
University of Phoenix, B.S. Baptist Bible College.
jwest@divinemercy.edu
Mallory Wines, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, Ph.D. Duquesne

University (Counselor Education and Supervision), M.S.
Youngstown State University, B.A. Kent State University.
mwines@divinemercy.edu
ADJUNCT FACULTY
Fred Boley, Ph.D, Adjunct Professor, Regent University

(Counselor Education and Supervision) M.A. King’s College,
University of London, M.A. Fuller Theological Seminary,
A.B. University of Michigan. fboley@divinemercy.edu
Kathleen Dudemaine, Ph.D. Adjunct Professor, PhD. Boston

University, (Psychology-Human Development) M.A. Rhode
Island College, B.A. Rhode Island College.
kdudemaine.ips@divinemercy.edu
Kathie Erwin, Ed.D., Adjunct Professor, Ed.D, Argosy

University (Counseling Psychology), M.A. Liberty
University, B.A. Eckerd College. kerwin@divinemercy.edu
Leah Herod, Ph.D., Adjunct Professor, Ph.D, Auburn

University (Clinical Psychology), M.S. Auburn University,
____________________________________________
B.A. University of Alabama-Tuscaloosa.
lherod@divinemercy.edu
Camille Humes, Ph.D. Adjunct Professor, Ph.D. Governors

State University (Counselor Education and Supervision).
M.A. Governors State University. B.A. Washington
University. chumes@divinemercy.edu
Ian Murphy, Ph.D. Adjunct Professor, Ph.D. Duquesne

University (Systematic Theology), M.A. University of Mary
Hardin-Baylor, B.S. Carnegie Mellon University.
imurphy.ips@divinemercy.edu
Eric Perry, Ph.D. Adjunct Professor, Ph.D. Duquesne

University (Counselor Education and Supervision), M.A.
Slippery Rock University, B.A. Ashford University.
eperry@divinemercy.edu
____________________________________________
Divine Mercy University Calendar
2018-2019
Term #1 Begins August 22
University Student e-Retreat August 25
Add/Drop Period Ends August 27
DMU CLOSED for Labor Day September 3
President’s Picnic (Sterling) September 8
Last Day to Drop and Receive “W” September 21
DMU CLOSED for Columbus Day October 8
MS-Coun Residency (510 & 580) October 10-14
Term #1 Ends October 16
Fall Break (no classes) October 17-23
Grades Due to Registrar October 22
Term #2 Begins October 24
Add/Drop Period Ends October 29
Last Day to Drop and Receive “W” November 21
DMU CLOSED for Thanksgiving November 22 –

23
____________________________________________
Term #2 Ends December 18
Grades Due to Registrar December 27
Winter Break (MSP & CMHC) Dec 19 – Jan 8
DMU CLOSED for Christmas December 24 &

25
Degree Conferral December 28
DMU CLOSED for New Year’s Dec 31 & Jan 1
Term #1 Begins January 9
Add/Drop Period Ends January 14
DMU CLOSED for ML King,Jr. Day January 21
Last Day to Drop and Receive “W” February 8
DMU CLOSED for President’s Day February 18
Term #1 Ends March 5
Spring Break March 6 – 12
Grades Due to Registrar March 11
Term #2 Begins March 13
MS-Coun Residency (690) March 13-17
Add/Drop Period Ends March 18
Last Day to Drop and Receive “W” April 12
____________________________________________
DMU CLOSED Good Fri. & Easter Mon. April 19 & 22
Term #2 Ends May 7
Grades Due to Registrar May 14
Mid-Year Break May 8 – 21
DMU Graduation May 11
Summer ‘19 Classes Begin May 22
MS-Coun Residency (690) May 22-26
DMU CLOSED for Memorial Day May 27
Add/Drop Period Ends May 28
Last Day to Drop and Receive “W” June 21
DMU CLOSED for Independence Day July 4
MS-Coun Residency (510 & 580) July 10-14
Summer Term Ends July 16
Grades Due to Registrar July 23
Degree Conferral August 2
____________________________________________
Regarding the Academic Catalog
(DMU)
Every effort has been made to provide accurate
information. This catalog contains general academic and
administrative information with specific course
descriptions of the courses of study offered. All classes are
offered subject to instructor availability and sufficient
enrollment. A schedule of classes is available prior to the
registration period each semester. Divine Mercy University
reserves the right to change any of its policies without
prior notice, including but not limited to: tuition, fees,
credit hour per course, course offerings, curricula, grading
policies, graduation, program requirements, admission
standards and policies. Students will be notified of changes
as they occur, in a timely manner. This catalog supersedes
all previous catalogs. The policies expressed in this catalog
and each subsequent catalog will be considered the official
position of the University, regardless of any policies stated
in a previous catalog received by the student upon
admission. This catalog and each subsequent catalog are
supplemented by the rules and regulations stated in
institutional publications and on the school website. When
conflicts exist between any of these sources, the most
recent rule, regulation or policy will be applied. The
student is responsible to ensure that all graduation
requirements for degrees are met in accordance with the
catalog published at the time of their enrollment in the
degree which they seek. This catalog is in effect until the
fall semester of 2019.
____________________________________________
Notification of Policy Changes to
Students (DMU)
As policies evolve, students will be informed by the Vice
President of Academic and Student Affairs and Office of
Student Services who will disseminate these policies to the
students through the Student Leadership Committee (SLC).
The SLC will then distribute the policy/ies to the student
body and request feedback. This feedback will then be
conveyed to the Vice President of Academic and Student
Affairs who will then consult with the faculty about any
student concerns.
____________________________________________
Index
Welcome to Divine Mercy University 1
About DMU 2
DMU Vision 3
DMU Mission 3
Statement of Identity 4
A Catholic Christian Vision of the Person 6
Ex Corde Ecclesiae 7
Board of Directors 8
Degrees Offered 9
Degree Granting Authority/State Authorization 9
Accreditation 10
Regional Accreditation 10
APA Accreditation 10
ASPPB/National Register Designated Program 11
Academic Excellence 11
Academic Freedom 12
Board Policy on Diversity 13
Harassment-Free Environment 13
____________________________________________
Campus Facilities in Arlington, VA 14
M.S. Counseling Program Overview 15
School of Counseling Vision 15
School of Counseling Mission 16

Accreditation 16
SOC Counseling Program Mission 18
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Philosophy 19
M.S. in Counseling Program Description 19
M.S. Counseling Program Goals (Aspirational) 19
Program Goals (Student Learning Outcomes) 20
State Licensure Regulation Overview 22
State Authority and License Regulations 25
Licensure Disclaimers 26
Admission 32
Admission Requirements and Process 32
Admissions Process for International Students,

Online Programs 34
Statement of Non-Discrimination 35
Deferral of Enrollment, Online Students 36
____________________________________________
Re-Application for Admission of
Previously-Enrolled Students 37
Enrollment 39
M.S. Counseling Enrollment Status 39
Course-for-Credit or Audit 39
M.S. in Counseling Courses Available for Audit and

Non-Degree Student 41
Criteria for Transfer of Credit 42
Life Experiences and Course Exemptions 44
Registration for Classes 44
Add/Drop Course Change Policy 45
Leave of Absence 46
Withdrawal from the University 47
Transcripts 48
Enrollment Verification 48
International Student Visa Requirements 48
Computer and Internet Requirements 50
Program Requirements 52
M.S. Counseling Degree Requirements 52
Core Curriculum Content 52
MS Counseling Course List 53
____________________________________________
Semester Model, Course Length, & Credit Hours* 55
Program Practicum and Internship Hours 56
Professional Behavior Expectations and

Requirements 56
Remediation and Dismissal From Program* 57
Residency Information and Attendance 59
Candidacy for Clinical Placement 61
Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination

(CPCE) 62
Degree Time Limit 63
Graduation Requirements 63
Course Descriptions 65
Academic Policies 81
Academic Integrity 81
Class Attendance 82
Class Cancellations/Emergency Closing 83
Papers and Publication Style 84
Plagiarism 84
Copyright policy 86
Language Requirements 90
Final Examinations 90
____________________________________________
Course Evaluation by Students 90
Grading Policy 91
Grade Appeals 93
Academic Good Standing 94
Student Records 94
University FERPA Policy 95
Privacy Protection for Students Enrolled in Distance

Education and Accessing DMU Website 101
Student Contact Information 105
Internet Use in the On-Campus Classroom 106
Electronic Device Use Policy 106
Student Freedom of Expression 106
Representing and Communicating about DMU 107
Distribution of Materials 107
Student Publications 108
Official Communication 108
University Assigned Accounts 108
Student Grievance Process Policy 109
Academic Resources 114
Academic Advising and Mentoring 114
____________________________________________
Faculty Availability and Accessibility 114
Disability Support Services 115
The Mary S. Thelen Library 115
Study Areas 118
Computer Lab 118
Computer Access Policy 119
Canvas Learning Management System 120
The Blessed John Henry Cardinal Newman Lecture

Series 120
Financial Information 121
Financial Policies
Tuition and Fees, 2018-2019 121
Expenses 122
Payment of Student Account 122
Payment Plans 122
Refund Policy, Online Programs 122
Delinquent Accounts 124
Financial Aid 124
MS Counseling 2018-2019 Estimated Cost of

Attendance 124
____________________________________________
Financial Aid Overview 126
Types of Aid 127
Financial Aid Resources 129
Applying for Financial Aid 129
Financial Aid Application Deadlines 130
Financial Aid for International Students 131
Award letters 131
Federal Loan Eligibility Policies 132
Student Support Services and Policies 140
Student Support Services 140
Student Leadership Committee 141
Chaplaincy / Campus Ministry 141
Student Code of Conduct 142
Proper Attire Policy 144
Drug & Alcohol Use 144
Smoking Policy 145
Pet Policy 145
Parking 146
Student Housing 146
Career Services 147
____________________________________________
Counseling Services 148
International Students Support 148
Student Insurance 149
Safety and Emergency Procedures 149
Emergency Treatment 149
Social Activities 150
Faculty 154
Divine Mercy University Calendar 2018-2019 157
Regarding the Academic Catalog 160
Notification of Policy Changes to

Students 161
____________________________________________

Counseling Catalog

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2018-2019 M.S.

Welcome to Divine Mercy University

Building a program which integrates the best of psychology and

● Our past and current students have come from over 30

Maintaining the highest educational standards, we are

I invite you to join us as we look forward to an exciting time in

Rev. Charles Sikorsky L.C., J.D., J.C.L.

* “Address of John Paul II to the Tribunal of the Roman Rota,”

The Divine Mercy University is governed by its Board of

The University seeks to provide students an effective academic

The life of the University is rooted in and fully informed by the

The heart of the identity of the University is belief in the

The human person is further recognized as a free and

Those who come to work or study at the University either

A Catholic Christian Vision of the Person

To assist in articulating this integrated understanding of reality

This vision of the person brings together the theoretical,

*”The mandatum is fundamentally an acknowledgment by

Mrs. Evelyn Auth Naples, Florida

Mr. Thomas Cunningham, Ellicott City, Maryland

Mr. Frank J. Hanna, III Atlanta, Georgia

Fr. John Hopkins, L.C., Vice Pasadena, California

Bishop Paul S. Loverde Arlington, Virginia

Dr. G. Alexander Ross Vero Beach, Florida

Fr. Charles Sikorsky, L.C., Potomac, Maryland

Dr. Barry Sugarman Towson, Maryland

Mr. Eugene Zurlo Charleston, South Carolina

Mr. Thomas Cunningham, Ellicott City, Maryland

Fr. John Hopkins, L.C., Vice Pasadena, California

Fr. Charles Sikorsky, L.C., Potomac, Maryland

Becci Sheptock, Corporate Alexandria, Virginia

Degree Granting Authority/State Authorization

● offering courses or programs for degree credit;

Once licensed, graduates are eligible to apply for credentialing

● All doctoral graduates who have applied for licensure

Board Policy on Diversity

Campus Facilities in Arlington, VA

The faculty and administrative offices are located on the fifth

IPS Center for Psychological Services (IPS Training Clinic) has a

Monday through 8:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

M.S. Counseling Program Overview

School of Counseling Vision

Students will be prepared to:

1. Hear the rich and complex voices of clients in view of

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program

Accreditation is a process of external quality review

Accreditation is the responsibility of recognized

The United States Department of Education (USDE) and a

Essentially, two categories of educational accreditation are

Institutional accreditation applies to an entire institution,

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Philosophy

M.S. in Counseling Program Description

M.S. Counseling Program Goals

1. Exhibit a vibrant professional counselor identity with

Program Goals (Student Learning Outcomes)

State Licensure Regulation Overview

There are many certificates that may be earned in the field

State Authority and Counseling License Regulations

The DMU SOC Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is

Typically, counselors may begin a professional career at an

Preferred License Examinations